Nuclear receptor binding agents

ABSTRACT

The present application relates to methods of treating, preventing, delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing the severity of hypertension and of a condition associated with cardiovascular disease

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/773,515, filed May 4, 2010, which is aContinuation-In-Part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/010,225, filed Jan. 22, 2008 which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/881,476, filed Jan. 22, 2007and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/907,754, filed Apr.16, 2007; and this application also claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/177,214, filed May 11, 2009,all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application relates to methods of treating, preventing,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hypertension and of conditions associated withcardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of ligand activatedtranscription factors is present in various tissues, and responsible fora multitude of effects in these tissues.

The nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily presently comprises approximately48 different proteins, of which 27 are ligand regulated, most of whichare believed to function as ligand activated transcription factors,exerting widely different biological responses by regulating geneexpression. Members of this family include receptors for endogenoussmall, lipophilic molecules, such as steroid hormones, retinoids,vitamin D and thyroid hormone.

The nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily includes the steroid nuclearreceptor subfamily, including the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) (oraldosterone receptor), the estrogen receptors (ER), ER alpha (ER-α) andER beta (ER-β), the androgen receptor (AR), the progesterone receptors(PR), glucocorticoid receptors (GR) and others. Also closely related instructure are the estrogen related receptors (ERRs) ERR-α, ERR-β andERR-γ. The steroid nuclear receptors perform important functions in thebody, some of which are related to the transcriptional homeostasis ofelectrolyte and water balance, growth, development and wound healing,fertility, stress responses, immunological function, and cognitivefunctioning. The effects may be mediated by cytosolic, mitochondrial ornuclear events. Accordingly, compounds that modulate (i.e. antagonize,agonize, partially antagonize, partially agonize) the activity ofsteroid nuclear receptors are important pharmaceutical agents that havespecific utility in a number of methods, as well as for the treatmentand prevention of a wide range of diseases and disorders modulated bythe activity of steroid nuclear receptors.

The biological actions of estrogens and antiestrogens are manifestthrough two distinct intracellular receptors, estrogen receptor alpha(ER-α) and estrogen receptor beta (ER-β). For instance, ER-β is presentin, among other tissues, brain, bone, immune system, gastrointestinaltract, lung, ovary, endometrium, prostate, vasculature, urogenitaltract, salivary gland, etc. The role of ER-β in these tissues has beenconfirmed by observed phenotypes in ER-β knockout mice. Pathologies inthese tissues may be treated by administration of ER-β selectiveligands.

The prevalence of metabolic diseases, such as obesity, insulinresistance and type II diabetes has increased dramatically in the pastdecade. For example, it is estimated that 400 million people were obeseor overweight globally in 2008, and approximately two-thirds ofAmericans are overweight or obese, making obesity a serious health riskand economic burden to society. Obesity is not a stand-alone disease, asits emergence leads to various complications including type-2-diabetesmellitus (T2DM), hypertension, atherosclerosis and other cardiovasculardiseases, osteoporosis and clinical depression [Lavie et al, 2009 J AmColl Cardiol 53:1925-32; Fabricatore et al 2006 Annu Rev Clin Psychol2:357-77]. Currently there are no effective pharmaceutical treatmentsfor this pandemic problem. Although surgical procedures can reduceweight by 50-90%, it is restricted due to the risk of surgery andassociated side effects. The best drugs currently in the markettypically reduce weight by about 5-10% per year at most. Only two FDAapproved drugs are available for treating over-weight indication: 1.Amphetamines (like phenteramine) and sibutramine that act on thehypothalamus to control appetite stimulation in the CNS. 2. Belviq®(lorcaserin) that is a 5-HT_(2C) agonist that decreases food consumptionand promotes satiety by selectively activating 5-HT_(2C) receptors onanorexigenic pro-opiomelanocortin neurons located in the hypothalamus.3. Orlistat that is a lipase inhibitor that blocks gastrointestinalabsorption of fat and decreases energy uptake [Cooke et al 2006 Nat RevDrug Discov 5:919-31]. Common side effects associated with these drugsincluding tachycardia, hypertension, fecal incontinence and/or cardiacvalvopathy, making anti-obesity drug development of paramountimportance. Therefore, there is a need in the art for more effective andsafe drugs to treat conditions such as obesity, and other relatedconditions and metabolic disorders.

Obesity is a heterogeneous disease which occurs when energy uptakeexceeds energy expenditure. Though the etiology of obesity remainsuncertain, several mechanisms such as alterations in feeding behavior,signals in the hypothalamus, levels of leptin, adipokines secreted bywhite adipose tissue (WAT), neuropeptides and neurotransmitters thatcontrol behavior, hormonal changes associated with age, inflammatorysignals in adipose, stress and others trigger the onset of obesity [Yuet al 2009 Forum Nutr 61:95-103; Rother et al 2009 Dtsch Med Wochenschr134:1057-9; Reisin et al 2009 Med Clin North Am 93:733-51].

Increase in the incidence of post-menopausal obesity, visceral obesityat andropause and gender differences in the incidence of metabolicdiseases indicate the importance of the nuclear hormone receptor (NR)superfamily in regulating body weight [Allende-Vigo M Z 2008 P R HealthSci J 27:190-5; Geer et al 2009 Gend Med 6 Suppl 1:60-75]. Many of theNRs play pivotal roles in regulating the emergence of metabolicdiseases. Activation of bile acid NRs such as Farnesoid X Receptor(FXR), Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR) and Pregnane X Receptor(PXR) promotes weight loss and also increases insulin sensitivity[Thomas et al 2008 Nat Rev Drug Discov 7:678-93; Cariou B et al 2007Trends Pharmacol Sci 28:236-43]. Similarly, Estrogen Related Receptors(ERRα, ERRβ and ERRγ) play significant roles in increasing energyexpenditure, reducing adipogenesis and body weight gain [Ariazi E A etal 2006 Curr Top Med Chem 6:203-15]. Other members of the NR belongingto the Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor (PPARs) and EstrogenReceptors (ERs) also play a role in maintenance of blood glucose andbody fat, making the NRs an attractive target to prevent/treat obesityand metabolic diseases [Kintscher U et al 2009 Curr Opin Investig Drugs10:381-7; Beekum O et al 2009 Obesity (Silver Spring) 17:213-9; Billin AN 2008 Expert Opin Investig Drugs 17:1465-71; Banos R P et al 2006Trends Mol Med 12:425-31].

Cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease(CHD), and atherosclerosis have a higher incidence in post-menopausalwomen than in premenopausal women. This loss of cardiovascularprotection is attributed to the deficiency in circulating estrogenlevels in the post-menopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)can markedly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease inpost-menopausal women. However, the use of HRT for cardioprotection islimited due to the increased incidence of endometrial cancer in womenand gynecomastia in men.

Cardiac hypertrophy, ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricularhypertrophy, cardiomegaly, cardiac fibrosis, cardiomyopathy, dilatedcardiomyopathy, myocardial infarction and cardiac failure arepathological reactions to cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, CHDand atherosclerosis. Increased arterial vascular resistance results incardiomyocyte hypertrophy. If the underlying cause is not controlled,cardiac hypertrophy progresses to dilation, apoptotic thinning ofmyocytes, and ultimately heart failure. Treatments that reduce arterialvascular resistance and thus hypertension, may aid in the prevention ortreatment of conditions associated with cardiovascular disease.Cardioprotective effects of estrogen have now been known for a long time(Schrepfer, S., Deuse T., et al. Menopause (2006) 13(3): 489-499).However, the isoform that is involved in this protective effect is stillunder debate. Literature evidence to support the involvement of both theisoforms is available. Both circulating and exogenously administeredestrogens reduce vasoconstriction of the pulmonary artery, suggestingapplication in hypertension. Studies with propylpyrazole triol (ERαselective agonist) and diarylproprionitrile (ERβ selective agonist)suggested that both ER isoforms are involved (Yu H P, Shimizu T, et al.J. Mol. Cell. Cardiol. (2006) 40(1): 185-194; Ba Z F, Chaudry I H. Am.J. Physiol Heart Circ. Physiol. (2008) 295(5): H2061-H2067). However,due to their lack of effects on reproductive tissues, ERβ selectiveagonists may be a preferable strategy for hypertension. In addition,extensive literature that suggests the involvement of ERβ in myocardialprotection is available. Knockout of ERβ (ERβKO) led to increasedmortality and aggravation of heart failure after myocardial infarctionin mice (Pelzer T, Loza P A, et al. Circulation (2005) 111(12):1492-1498). Similarly, after reperfusion/ischemic injury, ERβKO micedemonstrated a delayed cardiac recovery compared to wildtype or ERαKOmice.

ER-β in some cases functions as an antagonist of ER-α throughheterodimerization with ER-α. For instance, agonists of ER-β may blockthe proliferative influence of ER-α in tissues such as prostate andbreast where ER-α is known to promote neoplasia. In addition to itsanti-ER-α mediated growth inhibition, ER-β autonomously inhibitsproliferation and promotes differentiation of prostate and othercancers. ER-β is also believed to antagonize the proliferative effectsAR in prostatic tissues. Prostatic hypertrophy and hyperplasia/dysplasiamay result from a combination of androgenic stimulation of proliferationand/or failed activation of ER-β by locally synthesized estrogens. Thishypertrophy or hyperplasia/dysplasia often leads to a variety ofprostatic maladies such as BPH, prostatic inflammatory atropy (aprecursor to neoplasia), PIN, and CaP. Administration of exogenous ER-βagonists can be expected to provide prostatic anti-proliferation therebybeing beneficial in the prevention or treatment of these prostaticdiseases. Additionally, decreased side effects can be expected for ER-βselective agents compared to isoform nonselective ligands for treatingmany of these diseases.

Compounds that act as estrogen receptor ligands are, therefore, usefulin treating a variety of conditions and disorders. Selective estrogenreceptor modulators (estrogen receptor ligands, such as ERβ agonists)are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0030036.

Hormones are important regulators of adipose function andepidemiological studies suggest that estrogens regulate metabolism andfat distribution. The presence of ER-α and ER-β, the two receptors thatmediate the actions of estradiol, in adipose tissue implicates a directrole of the ligands in adipose function. Moreover, the observed genderand age differences in the discovery of brown adipose tissue (BAT) inhumans point towards the possibility that circulating estradiol levelsmay be an important contributor toward the development of BAT [Cypess AM et al. 2009 N Engl J Med 360:1509-17]. Studies with individual ERKnockout (KO) mice indicated the importance of these isoforms inmaintaining lipid and glucose homeostasis [Harris H A 2007 MolEndocrinol 21:1-13]. ER-αKO mice exhibit insulin resistance, whereas,high fat diet fed ER-βKO mice demonstrate a higher magnitude of obesitythan wildtype mice [Foryst-Ludwig A et al 2008 PLoS Genet 4:e1000108].Though some of these studies speculated that estrogenic control of bodyweight is mediated by ER-β, it is still not clear which isoform mediatesthe beneficial effects of estradiol on body fat, glucose and cholesterol[Pallottini V et al 2008 Infect Disord Drug Targets 8:52-60; Liang Y Qet al 2002 Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord 26:1103-9].

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

In one embodiment, this invention provides a) a method of treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hypertension; b) a method of preventing hypertension; c) amethod of treating, delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, orreducing the severity of a condition associated with cardiovasculardisease; d) a method of preventing a condition associated withcardiovascular disease, comprising administering to a subject in needthereof a therapeutically effective amount of an estrogen receptor-betaligand compound.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a) a method of treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hypertension; b) a method of preventing hypertension; c) amethod of treating, delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, orreducing the severity of a condition associated with cardiovasculardisease; d) a method of preventing a condition associated withcardiovascular disease, comprising administering to a subject in needthereof a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of thisinvention.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hypertension, comprising administering to a subject in needthereof a therapeutically effective amount of an estrogen receptorligand compound represented by the structure of Formula XI:

wherein

-   -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R),        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl,        benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl,        trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN,        NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   h is 0, 1, 2 or 3;    -   i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   n is 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   m is 1 or 2;    -   p is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons;    -   or its isomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical        product, polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any        combination thereof.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of preventinghypertension, comprising administering to a subject in need thereof atherapeutically effective amount of an estrogen receptor ligand compoundrepresented by the structure of Formula XI:

wherein

-   -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl,        benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl,        trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN,        NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   h is 0, 1, 2 or 3;    -   i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   n is 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   m is 1 or 2;    -   p is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons; or its isomer,        pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,        polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any        combination thereof.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a condition associated with cardiovascular disease,comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeuticallyeffective amount of an estrogen receptor ligand compound represented bythe structure of Formula XI:

wherein

-   -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl,        benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl,        trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN,        NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   h is 0, 1, 2 or 3;    -   i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   n is 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   m is 1 or 2;    -   p is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons;    -   or its isomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical        product, polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any        combination thereof.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of preventing acondition associated with cardiovascular disease, comprisingadministering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effectiveamount of an estrogen receptor ligand compound represented by thestructure of Formula XI:

wherein

-   -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl,        benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl,        trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN,        NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   h is 0, 1, 2 or 3;    -   i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   n is 1, 2, 3 or 4;    -   m is 1 or 2;    -   p is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons;    -   or its isomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical        product, polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any        combination thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts binding constants of 12b (A), 12f (B), 12h (C), 12p (D),12s (E), 12u (F), 12y (G), 12z (H), and estradiol (last pane) to ER-α(dashed) and ER-β (filled).

FIG. 2 depicts ER-α and ER-β activation by 12l, with 0.1, 1, 10, 100,1000 nM doses.

FIG. 3 depicts in vitro and in vivo characterization of ER-β selectiveSERMs. (A) Structure of 14m and 12u. (B) Binding and transactivationcharacteristics of ER-β SERMs, 14m and 12u: Ligand binding assay(columns 2-6) and transactivation assay (columns 7-8). (C) 14m and 12uweakly induced Ishikawa cell proliferation. (D) 14m and 12u did notincrease uterine weights. Data is expressed as Mean±S.E. RBA—relativebinding affinity; ER-α—estrogen receptor α; ER-β—estrogen receptor β;s.c.—subcutaneously.

FIG. 4 depicts the effect of 14m on diet induced obesity. (A) Biweeklybody weight. (B) Feed consumption. Panel A lower graph shows the percentdifference in body weight of high fat (H.F.) diet fed receiving vehicleand 14m, respectively. Panel A inset shows a representative mouse fromH.F. and normal diets. Values are expressed as Mean±S.E. H.F.—high fat;N.D.—normal diet; B.Wt—body weight; *—significance at p<0.05 from normaldiet fed vehicle treated animals; #—significance at p<0.05 from high fatdiet fed vehicle treated animals.

FIG. 5 depicts the effects of 14m and 12u on high fat diet inducedobesity. (A) Biweekly body weight represented as body weight differencefrom day 0. (B) 14m and 12u reduced fat mass (top panel) and increasedmuscle mass (bottom panel). The data are expressed as percent fat andlean mass of body weight. N.D.—normal diet; H.F.—high fat diet;*—significance at p<0.05 from normal diet fed vehicle treated animals;#—significance at p<0.05 from high fat diet fed vehicle treated animals.

FIG. 6 depicts the effect of 14m on the reduction of fat mass andmarkers of metabolic diseases. (A) demonstrated the effect of 14m onbody fat (left panel) and bone mineral content (BMC, right panel). Bodyfat content is expressed as percent fat of body weight. (B), (C), (E)and (F) demonstrated the effect of 14m on metabolic diseases markers:white adipose tissue (WAT; panel B); cholesterol (panel C); leptin(panel E); and the inflammatory marker MIP-1β (panel F). (D)demonstrated the effect of 14m on serum glucose levels after glucosetolerance test (squares represent vehicle treated H.F. diet mices;#—statistical significance relative normal diet controls).

FIG. 7 depicts the white adipose tissue (WAT) weight, brown adiposetissue (BAT) weight and gastrocnemius muscle (GASTROC) weight at studycompletion for the mice following completion of the study. Maintenanceon a high fat diet significantly increased the weight of WAT anddecreased the weight of gastrocnemius muscle compared to a normal diet.14m and 12u prevented the increase in the WAT weight and increasedgastrocnemius muscle weight in the high fat diet fed group compared tovehicle treated. (* significant from normal diet+vehicle, # significantfrom high fat diet+vehicle).

FIG. 8 depicts representative liver sections obtained from normal dietfed mice, mice fed with a high fat diet and vehicle treated, and micefed with a high fat diet and treated with 14m. The administration of 14mattenuated the accumulation of lipid droplets in the liver. (Example23.7). N.D.—normal diet; H.F.—high fat diet.

FIG. 9 depicts the mouse testes weight (panel A), serum testosterone (T)levels (panel B) and serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels(panel C) following completion of the study (Example 23.8). The levelswere determined immediately after sacrifice. 14m and 12u did not affectthe serum testosterone levels. 14m did not affect serum testosterone andfollicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Serum levels of totaltestosterone and FSH were determined immediately prior to sacrificeafter week 12 of treatment. 14m did not suppress these endocrinehormones, suggesting that its effects were not mediated through ERα.

FIG. 10 depicts the effect of 12u on treating high-fat diet inducedobesity. (A) Biweekly body weight. (B) Fat mass. N.D.—normal diet. (C)WAT, BAT, liver weights. H.F.—high fat diet; *—significance at p<0.05from normal diet fed vehicle treated animals; #—significance at p<0.05from high fat diet fed vehicle treated animals.

FIG. 11 depicts the effect of 12u on altering body composition ofovariectomized mice. (A) Biweekly body weight (B) feed consumption (C)fat mass (left panel) and lean mass (right panel). (D) white adiposetissue (WAT) and uterus weights. OVX—Ovariectomy; *—significance atp<0.05 from normal diet fed vehicle treated animals; #—significance atp<0.05 from high fat diet fed vehicle treated animals.

FIG. 12 depicts the effect of ER-β ligand on PPAR-γ function throughligand binding domain (LBD). (A). HEK-293 cells were transfected with0.25 μg PPRE-LUC, 5 ng CMV-renilla LUC and the indicated receptors(PPAR-γ and ER-β for the left panel and PPAR-α and ER-β for the rightpanel). The cells were treated 24 hrs after transfection with theindicated ligands and harvested 48 hrs after transfection and fireflyluciferase activity was measured and normalized to renilla luciferase.(B). H475 in ER-β LBD is important for its function. H475 in ER-β LBDwas mutated to alanine (A) using a site directed mutagenesis kit.Transactivation assay was performed as described in panel A in HEK-293cells with a titration of ER-β ligands in wild type (WT) or ER-β H475A.(C). ER-β H475A does not inhibit PPAR-γ transactivation. HEK-293 cellswere transfected with 0.25 μg PPRE-LUC, 5 ng CMV-renilla LUC and 50 ngof the indicated receptors (PPAR-γ or PPAR-γ and wild type ER-β orPPAR-γ and ER-β H475A). The cells were treated 24 hrs after transfectionwith the indicated ligands and harvested 48 hrs after transfection andfirefly luciferase activity was measured and normalized to renillaluciferase. (D). ER-β ligand dependently inhibits PGC-1 coactivatedPPAR-γ but not PPAR-α transactivation. HepG2 cells were transfected with0.25 μg PPRE-LUC, 5 ng CMV-renilla LUC, 0.5 μg PGC-1 or vector backboneand 100 ng of the indicated receptors (PPAR-γ or PPAR-γ and wild typeER-β or PPAR-γ and ER-β H475A for top panels and PPAR-α or PPAR-α andER-β for bottom panel). The cells were treated 24 hrs after transfectionwith the indicated ligands and harvested 48 hrs after transfection andfirefly luciferase activity was measured and normalized to renillaluciferase. (E). SHP-1 is an ER-β specific target gene. HEK-293 cellswere transfected with 0.25 μg SHP-LUC, 5 ng CMV-renilla LUC and 50 ng ofthe indicated receptors (FXR and ER-α for the left panel and FXR andER-β for the right panel). The cells were treated 24 hrs aftertransfection with the indicated ligands and harvested 48 hrs aftertransfection and firefly luciferase activity was measured and normalizedto renilla luciferase. PPAR—peroxisome proliferator and activatedreceptor; ER—estrogen receptor; H—histidine; A—alanine; RLU—relativeluciferase units; Tro—troglitazone; PGC-1—PPAR-γ coactivator; SHP— smallheterodimer partner; FXR—farsenoid X receptor.

FIG. 13 depicts the effect of 12y (FIG. 13A) and 12u (FIG. 13B) onmacrophage adhesion to endothelial cells.

FIG. 14 depicts the effect of 12b on the edema volume which was inducedby Carrageenan (i.e. Carrageenan-induced raw paw edema as an acuteinflammation model).

FIG. 15 depicts treatment protocol for measuring rapid (non-genomic)aortic ring relaxation by NRBA's of this invention.

FIG. 16 depicts concentration-response curves generated as in FIG. 15for 14m, 12u and 12y.

FIG. 17 depicts response to treatment protocol for measuring doseresponse effects following aortic ring constriction by phenylephrine(PE).

FIG. 18 depicts a concentration-response curve generated as in FIG. 17for 12y, 12z, and 14l.

FIG. 19 depicts the protocol that measured the effect of long-termincubation of aortic rings with NRBAs of this invention, and an examplegraph for 14l.

FIG. 20 depicts (A) Inhibition of RASMC proliferation by ER-β ligand14l. Cell proliferation was estimated using the WST-1 calorimetricassay. Absorbance at 450 nm was measured and expressed as a percentageof the absorbance in control wells containing cells only on day 0 (G0).(B) Fluorescent detection of intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS). Subconfluent monolayers of ARPE-19 cells were pretreated with therespective drugs with or without ICI, before exposure to oxidativestress with tBH. Values for cells treated with dye only were subtractedfrom the raw fluorescence data. Fluorescence is reported relative tocells containing dye in the presence of oxidant alone. Each drugtreatment was done in triplicate and is plotted +/−s.e.m.

FIG. 21 depicts the effect of 12b and 12u on LNCaP (prostate cancer)cell proliferation.

FIG. 22 depicts the effect of 12b and 12u on C-26 (colon cancer) cellproliferation.

FIG. 23 depicts the effect of 12b and 12u on LNCaP-stromal cellxenograft tumor growth, after 10, 14 and 21 days.

FIG. 24 depicts the effect of 12u on cardiac hypertrophy induced byAngiotensin II (Ang II). (A) After three weeks of Angiotensin IIinfusion, hearts were sectioned, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin.Eight sections per heart were created for analysis and the datarepresent 6-8 mice per condition. Bar, 2 mm (B) Hearts were dissectedand the left ventricles were weighed and the ratio of left ventricleweight/total body weight (LVW/BW) was determined. The bar graphrepresents four mice per condition. *, P<0.05 for WT (saline control)vs. other treatment; +, P<0.05 for Angiotensin II treated vs.Angiotensin II treated wildtype (WT) plus 12u or estradiol (E₂). AngII—angiotensin II; E2—estradiol; WT—wild type; ERβKO—ERβ knock out.

FIG. 25 depicts the effect of 12u on increased cardiac size induced byAngiotensin II. (A) Images of hearts by treatment. (B) Whole hearts wereremoved and weighed for calculating the ratio of heart weight to bodyweight. The bar graph is the mean±sem from six to eight mice percondition. *, P<0.05 for WT (saline control) vs. other treatment or +,P<0.05 for Angiotensin II treated ERβKO vs. Angiotensin II treatedwildtype (WT) plus 12u or E₂. Ang II or Ang—angiotensin II;E2—estradiol; WT—wild type; ERβKO—ERβ knock out.

FIG. 26 depicts the effect of 12u on an important marker of cardiachypertrophy. MHCα and -β proteins were determined by immunoblot frompooled ventricles of WT and ERβKO mice by treatment. GAPDH is shown as aloading control.

FIG. 27 depicts the effect of 12u on Angiotensin II mediated activationof ERK. ERK phosphorylation in the left ventricle was determined at 3 wkof treatment, from equal amounts of ERK2 protein immunoprecipitated fromthe different treatments. Total ERK2 protein is shown as loadingcontrol. Bar graph is the mean±sem of three experiments combined.

FIG. 28 depicts the effect of 12u on MCIP-1 gene and protein expression.Gene and protein expression were determined by PCR (top panel) from thepooled ventricular samples of differently treated mice and by Westernblot (bottom panel), respectively. GAPDH is shown as a loading control.

FIG. 29 depicts the effect of 12u on Angiotensin II Induced CardiacFibrosis. (A) Hearts were obtained from the differently treated mice andsectioned. Tissue sections (5 um) were stained with Masson's trichromefor the presence of interstitial collagen fiber accumulation indicativeof cardiac fibrosis (blue staining) (B) The ratio of interstitialfibrosis to the total left ventricular area (% fibrosis) was calculatedfrom 10 randomly selected microscopic fields from each of five sectionsper heart. (C) Further quantification of collagen deposition was made byventricular content of hydroxyproline, a breakdown product of collagen.To determine hydroxyproline content, ventricular tissues fromdifferently treated mice were homogenized, hydrolyzed, dried and theresidue re-suspended in sterile water. Chloramine T was added followedby Ehrlich's reagent and the intensity of the red coloration thatdeveloped was measured by a spectrophotometer at 558 nm *, P<0.05 for WT(saline control) vs. other treatment

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

In one embodiment, a NRBA refers to a compound that affects estrogenreceptor activity. In one embodiment, a NRBA exhibits activity as anagonist, or, in another embodiment, as an antagonist, or in anotherembodiment, as a partial agonist, or in another embodiment, as a partialantagonist of the estrogen receptor.

In some embodiments the NRBAs are estrogen receptor ligand compounds. Inone embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is a selective estrogen receptor β modulator(β-SERM or ER-β SERM or ER-β selective SERM or ER-β NRBA). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor β (ER-β) agonist. In one embodiment,the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ER-β)antagonist.

In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound is selective toER-β. In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound does notcross react with ER-α. In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligandcompound does not cross react with ER-α up to concentration of 10 μM. Inone embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound does not crossreact with ER-α up to concentration of 1 μM. In one embodiment theestrogen receptor ligand compound is bound to ER-β with at least 5 foldselectivity compared to ER-α. In one embodiment the estrogen receptorligand compound is bound to ER-β with at least 10 fold selectivitycompared to ER-α. In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is bound to ER-β with at least 50 fold selectivity compared toER-α. In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound is boundto ER-β with almost 100 fold selectivity compared to ER-α. In oneembodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound is β-SERM agonist.

In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound functions asagonist to ER-β. In one embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compoundfunctions as antagonist to ER-β. In one embodiment the estrogen receptorligand compound functions as agonist to ER-α. In one embodiment theestrogen receptor ligand compound functions as antagonist to ER-α. Inone embodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound functions asagonist to both ER-β and ER-α. In one embodiment the estrogen receptorligand compound functions as agonist to both ER-β and ER-α with aselectivity of at least 5 fold towards ER-β. In one embodiment theestrogen receptor ligand compound functions as agonist to both ER-β andER-α with a selectivity of at least 10 fold towards ER-β. In oneembodiment the estrogen receptor ligand compound functions as agonist toboth ER-β and ER-α with a selectivity of 20-30 fold towards ER-β andwith EC₅₀ of less than 10 nM.

In one embodiment, the NRBA exerts its effects on the estrogen receptor(e.g., ER-α, ER-β or ERRs) in a tissue-dependent manner. In someembodiments, the NRBA of this invention can act as estrogen receptoragonists in some tissues (e.g., bone, brain, and/or heart) and asantagonists in other tissue types, for example in the breast and/oruterine lining.

In one embodiment, a NRBA of this invention will have an IC₅₀ or EC₅₀with respect to ERα and/or ERβ of up to about 10 μM as determined usingthe ERα and/or ERβ transactivation assays, as known in the art, or, inother embodiments, as described herein. In some embodiments, the NRBAexhibit EC₅₀ or IC₅₀ values (as agonists or antagonists, respectively)of about 5 μM, or less than about 5 μM. Representative compounds of thepresent invention have been discovered to exhibit agonist or antagonistactivity with respect to the estrogen receptor. Compounds of the presentinvention exhibit, in some embodiments, an antagonist or agonist IC₅₀ orEC₅₀ with respect to ERα and/or ERβ of about 5 μM or less than about 5μM, or in some embodiments, up to about 500 nM, or in other embodiments,up to about 50 nM, or in other embodiments, up to about 10 nM, or inother embodiments, up to about 1 nM, as measured in ERα and/or ERβtransactivation assays.

The term “IC₅₀” refers, in some embodiments, to a concentration of theNRBA which reduces the activity of a target (e.g., ERα or ERβ) tohalf-maximal level.

The term “EC₅₀” refers, in some embodiments, to a concentration of theNRBA that produces a half-maximal effect.

In some embodiments of this invention, the compounds of this inventionare bisphenolic agents. In some embodiments of this invention, thecompounds of this invention are mono- or nonphenolic agents. In someembodiments of this invention, the compounds of this invention aresubstituted isoquinolines. In some embodiments of this invention, thecompounds of this invention are substituted isoquinolinones. In someembodiments of this invention, the compounds of this invention aresubstituted dihydroisoquinolinones. In some embodiments of thisinvention, the NRBAs have selectivity for ER-β. In some embodiment ofthis invention, the NRBAs are agonists of ER-β. In some embodiment ofthis invention, the NRBAs are partial agonists of ER-β. In someembodiment of this invention, the NRBAs are antagonists of ER-β.

In some embodiments of this invention, the NRBAs have anti-oxidantactivity. In some embodiments, the antioxidant activity is independentof the nuclear receptor binding activity. In some embodiments, the NRBAsof this invention exhibit non-genomic signaling in cells. In someembodiments, the NRBAs of this invention exhibit mitochondrialsignaling.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula I:

-   -   wherein    -   A is a 5-14 membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or        unsubstituted carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring which is        optionally a fused ring system, or a combination thereof;        wherein the saturated or unsaturated carbocyclic or heterocyclic        rings are optionally substituted by 1 to 5 substituents        independently selected from R₃ or OR″; and X is O or S; or    -   A is nothing, N forms a double bond with the cyclic carbon and X        is OH or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a 3-7        membered saturated or unsaturated substituted or unsubstituted        heterocyclic ring;    -   R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OHSH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, heteroaryl, phenyl, benzyl,        -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN,        NO₂, or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk, or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk, or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   n is an integer of between 1-3;    -   m is an integer between 1-2; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula I is an estrogen receptor ligandcompound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is aselective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In one embodiment, theestrogen receptor ligand compound is a selective estrogen receptor βmodulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In one embodiment, theestrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ)agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is anestrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In one embodiment, the NRBA is represented by the structure of FormulaI:

-   -   wherein A, X, R₁, R₂, R′, n and m are as described above,        wherein if X is oxo and A is phenyl, then A is not substituted        with:        -   NHCOR and halogen without further substitution, or        -   NHCOR and an alkyl without further substitution.

In one embodiment, A is

p is an integer between 1-4; R″ is hydrogen, Alk, or COR; R₃ ishydrogen, aldehyde, COOH, C(═N)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, —CH═CH₂,hydroxyalkyl, halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂,4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide,SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl,OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle orOCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, in which the heterocycle is a 3-7 memberedsaturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclicring.

In one embodiment of the compound of Formula I, A is nothing, N forms adouble bond with the cyclic carbon and X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered heterocycloalkyl. In one embodiment,when X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, the heterocycle is substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycleor, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one ormore substituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, wherein R is asdefined for Formula I.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula I, R₂ is a halogen. Inanother embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is a hydroxyl group. In another embodiment R₁ isO—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. In another embodimentR₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodimentR₁ is a hydroxyl group and n is 1. In another embodiment R₁ is inposition 8 of the isoquinolinone group. In another embodiment R₃ ishalogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodimentR₃ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. Inanother embodiment R′ is a COMe group. In another embodiment R″ is H. Inanother embodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ is aCOMe group.

In another embodiment this invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula II:

-   -   wherein    -   A is a 5-14 membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or        unsubstituted carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring which is        optionally a fused ring system, or a combination thereof;        wherein the saturated or unsaturated carbocyclic or heterocyclic        ring are optionally substituted by 1 to 5 substituents        independently selected from R₃ or OR″; and X is O or S; or    -   A is nothing, N forms a double bond with the cyclic carbon and X        is OH or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a 3-7        membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted        heterocyclic ring;    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   n is an integer between 1-3;    -   m is an integer between 1-2;    -   p is an integer between 1-4; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula II is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment this invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula II:

-   -   A, X, R₁, R₂, R, n and m are as described above, wherein    -   if X is oxo and A is phenyl, then A is not substituted with:        -   NHCOR and halogen without further substitution, or        -   NHCOR and an alkyl without further substitution.

In one embodiment, A is

-   -   wherein p is an integer between 1-4; R″ is hydrogen, Alk, or        COR; R₃ is hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH, C(═N)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H,        —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro,        CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl,        allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR,        NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl,        benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;

In one embodiment of the compound of Formula II, A is nothing, N forms adouble bond with the cyclic carbon and X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, inwhich the heterocycle is a 3-7 membered heterocycloalkyl. In oneembodiment, when X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, the heterocycle issubstituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independentlyZ-Alk-heterocycle or, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, eitherheterocycle may be substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine,morpholine or piperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ areindependently a 3 to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, any heterocycle is optionallysubstituted by one or more substituents comprising halogen, cyano,nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR, hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,Ndialkylamino, aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy orhaloalkoxy, wherein R is as defined for Formula II.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula II, R₂ is a halogen. Inanother embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₁ isa hydroxyl group and n is 1. In another embodiment R₁ is in position 8of the isoquinolinone group. In another embodiment R₃ is halogen. Inanother embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃ is chloride.In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodiment R₃ is iodide.In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R′ is H. Inanother embodiment R′ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R′ is aCOMe group. In another embodiment R″ is H. In another embodiment R″ is amethyl group. In another embodiment R″ is a COMe group.

In another embodiment this invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula III:

-   -   wherein    -   A is a 5-14 membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or        unsubstituted carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring which is        optionally a fused ring system, or a combination thereof;        wherein the saturated or unsaturated carbocyclic or heterocyclic        ring are optionally substituted by 1 to 5 substituents        independently selected from R₃ or OR″; and X is O or S; or    -   A is nothing and N forms a double bond with the cyclic carbon        and X is OH or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a        3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or        unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R₁, R₂, R₃, R₉, R₁₀, R₁₁ are independently selected from        hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH, —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H,        CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy,        cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR,        alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,        OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl,        aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q,        Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which        the heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂, or        OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk, or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk, or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂, or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂, or SO₂NHR; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons;    -   wherein if A is a phenyl, X is an oxo group and R₁₀ is a benzene        ring, then:        -   R₉ is not COOR, if R is a hydrogen or an ester; or        -   R₉ is not CONR₄R₅, if R₄ and R₅ are as described above.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula III is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment this invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula III:

-   -   A, X, R₁, R₂, R₉, R₁₀, R₁₁ and R′ are as described above,        wherein if X is oxo and A is phenyl, then A is not substituted        with:        -   NHCOR and halogen without further substitution; or        -   NHCOR and an alkyl without further substitution.

In one embodiment, A is

R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, are independently selected from hydrogen, aldehyde,COOH, —C(═NH)—OHCHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R—CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH,SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl,OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅,Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substitutedor unsubstituted heterocyclic ring; R″ is hydrogen, Alk, or COR;

In another embodiment, if A is

X is an oxo group and R₁₀ is a benzene ring, then R₉ is not COOR, if Ris an ester residue or CONR₄R₅ . . . . In one embodiment of the compoundof Formula III, A is nothing, N forms a double bond with the cycliccarbon and X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a 3-7membered heterocycloalkyl. In one embodiment, when X isOCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, the heterocycle is substituted or unsubstitutedpiperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. In anotherembodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycle or, inanother embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle may besubstituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one ormore substituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, wherein R is asdefined for Formula III.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula III, R₁₀ is a halogen.In another embodiment R₁₀ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₁₀ is achloride. In another embodiment R₁₀ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₁₀ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₁₀ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₁₀ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₁₀ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a hydroxyl group. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen.In another embodiment R₂ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₂ isCOOH. In another embodiment R₂ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₇ is ahalogen. In another embodiment R₇ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₇is chloride. In another embodiment R₇ is bromide. In another embodimentR₇ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are hydrogens. Inanother embodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group.In another embodiment R′ is a COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. Inanother embodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ isCOMe. In another embodiment R₁, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉ and R₁₁ arehydrogens.

In one embodiment, the compound of Formula I may be represented by thestructure of Formula IV:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   n is an integer between 1-3;    -   m is an integer between 1-2;    -   p is an integer between 1-4; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula IV is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula IV, R₂ is a halogen. Inanother embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ ishalogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodimentR₃ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. Inanother embodiment R′ is COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. In anotherembodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ is COMe. Inanother embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycleor, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, the heterocycles are optionally substituted by oneor more substituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR,NHCOR, hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl,alkynyl, alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, wherein R is asdefined for Formula IV.

In another embodiment, the compound of formula II may be represented bythe structure of Formula V:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   n is an integer between 1-3;    -   m is an integer between 1-2;    -   p is an integer between 1-4; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula V is an estrogen receptor ligandcompound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is aselective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In one embodiment, theestrogen receptor ligand compound is a selective estrogen receptor βmodulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In one embodiment, theestrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ)agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is anestrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula V, R₂ is a halogen. Inanother embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ ishalogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodimentR₃ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. Inanother embodiment R′ is a COMe group In another embodiment R″ is H. Inanother embodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ is aCOMe. In another embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independentlyZ-Alk-heterocycle or, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, eitherheterocycle may be substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine,morpholine or piperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ areindependently a 3 to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, any heterocycle is optionallysubstituted by one or more substituents comprising halogen, cyano,nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR, hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,Ndialkylamino, aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy orhaloalkoxy; and R is as defined for Formula V.

In another embodiment, the compound of formula III may be represented bythe structure of Formula VI:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉, R₁₀, R₁₁ are independently selected        from hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH, —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H,        CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy,        cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR,        alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,        OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl,        aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q,        Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which        the heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ oar

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH        and;    -   and Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons;    -   wherein, if R₁₀ is a benzene ring, then:        -   R₉ is not COOR, if R is hydrogen or an ester residue; or        -   R₉ is not CONR₄R₅, if R₄ and R₅ are as described above.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula VI is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula VI, R₁₀ is a halogen.In another embodiment R₁₀ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₁₀ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₁₀ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₁₀ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₁₀ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₁₀ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a hydroxyl group. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen.In another embodiment R₂ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₂ isCOOH. In another embodiment R₂ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₇ is ahalogen. In another embodiment R₇ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₇is chloride. In another embodiment R₇ is bromide. In another embodimentR₇ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are hydrogens. Inanother embodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group.In another embodiment R′ is a COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. Inanother embodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ isCOMe. In another embodiment R₁, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉ and R₁₁ arehydrogens. In another embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉, R₁₀,R₁₁ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycle or, in another embodiment,OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3 to 7 memberedheterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted or unsubstitutedpiperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. In anotherembodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one or moresubstituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, wherein R is asdefined for Formula VI.

In one embodiment, the compound of formula I may be represented by thestructure of Formula VII:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   n is an integer between 1-3;    -   m is an integer between 1-2;    -   p is an integer between 1-4; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula VII is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula VII, R₂ is a halogen.In another embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ ishalogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodimentR₃ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. Inanother embodiment R′ is COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. In anotherembodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ is a COMe. Inanother embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycleor, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one ormore substituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, and R is as definedfor Formula VII.

In another embodiment, the compound of formula II may be represented bythe structure of Formula VIII:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   n is an integer between 1-3;    -   m is an integer between 1-2;    -   p is an integer between 1-4; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula VIII is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula VIII, R₂ is a halogen.In another embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ ishydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ is halogen. In another embodiment R₃is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃ is chloride. In another embodimentR₃ is bromide. In another embodiment R₃ is iodide. In another embodimentR′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. In anotherembodiment R′ is COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. In anotherembodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ is COMe. Inanother embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycleor, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one ormore substituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, and R is as definedfor Formula VIII.

In another embodiment, the compound of formula III may be represented bythe structure of Formula IX:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉, R₁₀, R₁₁ are independently selected        from hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH, —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H,        CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy,        cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR,        alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,        OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl,        aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q,        Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which        the heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;        and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula IX is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula IX, R₁₀ is a halogen.In another embodiment R₁₀ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₁₀ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₁₀ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₁₀ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₁₀ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₁₀ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₁₀ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a hydroxyl group. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen.In another embodiment R₂ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₂ isCOOH. In another embodiment R₂ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₇ is ahalogen. In another embodiment R₇ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₇is chloride. In another embodiment R₇ is bromide. In another embodimentR₇ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are hydrogens. Inanother embodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group.In another embodiment R′ is a COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. Inanother embodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ isCOMe. In another embodiment R₁, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉ and R₁₁ arehydrogens. In another embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃, R₆, R₇, R₈, R₉, R₁₀,R₁₁ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycle or, in another embodiment,OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3 to 7 memberedheterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted or unsubstitutedpiperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. In anotherembodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one or moresubstituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, and R is as definedfor Formula IX.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula X:

-   -   wherein    -   A is a 5-14 membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or        unsubstituted carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring which is        optionally a fused ring system, or a combination thereof;        wherein the saturated or unsaturated carbocyclic or heterocyclic        ring are optionally substituted by 1 to 5 substituents        independently selected from R₃ or OR″; and X is O or S; or    -   A is nothing, N forms a double bond with the cyclic carbon and X        is OH or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a 3-7        membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted        heterocyclic ring;    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   h is an integer between 0-3;    -   n is an integer between 1-4;    -   m is an integer between 1-2; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula X is an estrogen receptor ligandcompound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is aselective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In one embodiment, theestrogen receptor ligand compound is a selective estrogen receptor βmodulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In one embodiment, theestrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ)agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is anestrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thestructure of Formula X:

-   -   wherein A, X, R₁, R₂, R′, n, m and h are as described above,        however,    -   if X is oxo and A is phenyl, then A is not substituted with:        -   NHCOR and halogen without further substitution, or        -   NHCOR and an alkyl without further substitution.

In one embodiment, A is

p is an integer between 1-5; i is an integer between 0-4; R″ ishydrogen, Alk or COR; and R₃ is hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH, C(═NH)—OH,CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy,cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl,allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR,N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstitutedheterocyclic ring.

In one embodiment of the compound of Formula X, A is nothing, N forms adouble bond with the cyclic carbon and X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered heterocycloalkyl. In one embodiment,when X is OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, the heterocycle is substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently Z-Alk-heterocycleor, in another embodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one ormore substituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, haloalkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl,alkenyl, alkynyl, alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino,aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, and R isas defined for Formula X.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula X, R₂ is a halogen. Inanother embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ ishalogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodimentR₃ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R′ is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. Inanother embodiment R′ is COMe. In another embodiment R″ is H. In anotherembodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodiment R″ is COMe.

In one embodiment, the compound of Formula X may be represented by thestructure of Formula XI:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂, R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        —C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl,        halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe,        4-Ph-OH, SH, COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl,        alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂,        sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl,        protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅,        Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the        heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated,        substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic ring;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃,        -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R″ is hydrogen, Alk or COR;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   h is an integer between 0-3;    -   i is an integer between 0-4;    -   n is an integer between 1-4;    -   m is an integer between 1-2;    -   p is an integer between 0-5; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula XI is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In one embodiment, the compound of formula XI is represented by thestructure of Formula XIa:

-   -   wherein        -   n is 1 or 2;        -   p is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4; and        -   R₁, R₂, R₃, R′ and R″ are as described above for Formula I,    -   or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,        pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,        polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any        combination thereof.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula XIa is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment, the compound of formula XI may be represented bythe structure of Formula XIb:

-   -   wherein R₁, R₂, R₃, R′ and R″ are as described above for Formula        XI;        -   or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,            pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,            polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or            any combination thereof.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula XIb is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In one embodiment, R₂ of formula XI, XIa and XIb is a halogen. Inanother embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In one embodiment R₁of formula XI, XIa and XIb is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ isCOOH. In another embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is ahydroxyl group. In another embodiment R₁ is a hydrogen. In oneembodiment R₃ of formula XI, XIa and XIb is a hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₃ is a halogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. Inanother embodiment R₃ is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide.In another embodiment R₃ is iodide. In one embodiment R′ of formula XI,XIa and XIb is H. In another embodiment R′ is a methyl group. In anotherembodiment R′ is a COMe. In one embodiment R″ of formula XI, XIa and XIbis H. In another embodiment R″ is a methyl group. In another embodimentR″ is a COMe. In one embodiment h of formula XI, XIa and XIb is 1. Inanother embodiment h is 2. In one embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ of formulaXI, XIa and XIb are independently Z-Alk-heterocycle or, in anotherembodiment, OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle may be substitutedor unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inone embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ of formula XI, XIa and XIb areindependently a 3 to 7 membered heterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle maybe substituted or unsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine orpiperazine. In another embodiment, any heterocycle is optionallysubstituted by one or more substituents comprising halogen, cyano,nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR, hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,Ndialkylamino, aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy orhaloalkoxy, and R of formula XI, XIa and XIb is as defined for FormulaXI.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a NRBA or its prodrug,analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide,ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof, represented by thefollowing structure:

-   -   wherein    -   R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independently hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,        C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen,        hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH,        COR, COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl,        propargyl, OSO₂CF₃, OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide,        SO₂R, alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected        hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle        or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in which the heterocycle is a 3-7        membered saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted        heterocyclic ring;    -   R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkyl        group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,        heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group;    -   Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

-   -   Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR;    -   R is alkyl, hydrogen, haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl,        CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl, phenyl, -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F,        -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen, alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH;    -   n is an integer between 1-3;    -   p is an integer between 1-4; and    -   Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of 1-7        carbons, or cyclic alkyl of 3-8 carbons.

In some embodiments the NRBA of Formula XII is an estrogen receptorligand compound. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligandcompound is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is a selectiveestrogen receptor β modulator (β-SERM). In one embodiment, the estrogenreceptor ligand compound is an estrogen receptor agonist. In oneembodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is an estrogenreceptor β (ERβ) agonist. In one embodiment, the estrogen receptorligand compound is an estrogen receptor β (ERβ) antagonist.

In another embodiment of the compound of Formula XII, R₂ is a halogen.In another embodiment R₂ is a bromide. In another embodiment R₂ is achloride. In another embodiment R₂ is a fluoride. In another embodimentR₂ is an iodide. In another embodiment R₂ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment R₂ is a cyano. In another embodiment, R₂ is a phenyl. Inanother embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—CH₃. In another embodiment, R₂ is—CH═CH₂. In another embodiment, R₂ is —CH═CH—COOEt. In anotherembodiment R₁ is O—(CO)-Ph-CF₃. In another embodiment R₁ is COOH. Inanother embodiment R₁ is COOMe. In another embodiment R₁ is an hydroxylgroup. In another embodiment R₁ is hydrogen. In another embodiment R₃ ishalogen. In another embodiment R₃ is fluoride. In another embodiment R₃is chloride. In another embodiment R₃ is bromide. In another embodimentR₃ is iodide. In another embodiment R₃ is hydrogen. In anotherembodiment p is 1. In another embodiment, when R₁, R₂, R₃ areindependently Z-Alk-heterocycle or, in another embodiment,OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle, either heterocycle may be substituted orunsubstituted piperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. Inanother embodiment, when R₄ and R₅ are independently a 3 to 7 memberedheterocycloalkyl, either heterocycle may be substituted or unsubstitutedpiperidine, pyrrolidine, morpholine or piperazine. In anotherembodiment, any heterocycle is optionally substituted by one or moresubstituents comprising halogen, cyano, nitro, COOH, COOR, NHCOR,hydroxyl, amine, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl,alkanoyl, alkylthio, alkylamino, N,N dialkylamino, aminoalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, alkoxy or haloalkoxy, and R is as definedfor Formula XII.

In one embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is1-(2-(piperidin-1-yl)ethoxy)isoquinolin-6-ol. In another embodiment theNRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-6-hydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-chloro-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-chloro-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-iodoisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(3-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is8-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is5-bromo-8-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is5-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxy-4-iodoisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methylphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxy-isoquinoline-1(2H)-thione. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is8-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-5-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinoline-1(2H)-thione. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-hydroxy-6-methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-8-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4,5-dibromo-2-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-5-(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yltrifluoromethanesulfonate.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4,5-dibromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrileor 4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-4-vinyl-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-chloro-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yltrifluoromethanesulfonate. In another embodiment the NRBA of thisinvention is4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention isisoquinoline-1,6-diol. In another embodiment the NRBA of this inventionis 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-(6-acetoxy-4-bromo-1-oxoisoquinolin-2(1H)-yl)phenyl acetate. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-(4-bromo-6-methoxy-1-oxoisoquinolin-2(1H)-yl)phenyl acetate. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbimidicacid. In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is methyl4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carboxylate.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carboxylicacid. In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxy-4-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxy-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. In anotherembodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one. Inanother embodiment the NRBA of this invention is(E)-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-(prop-1-enyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is (E)-ethyl3-(8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-4-yl)acrylate.In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is(E)-3-(6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-4-yl)acrylicacid. In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is(E)-3-(6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-4-yl)acrylicacid. In another embodiment the NRBA of this invention is4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one, or itsprodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity,N-oxide, ester, hydrate, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is4-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one, or itsprodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity,N-oxide, ester, hydrate, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one,or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity,N-oxide, ester, hydrate, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the estrogen receptor ligand compound is4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (or6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile),or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity,N-oxide, ester, hydrate, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the NRBA of this invention, compositions of thisinvention or uses thereof may comprise any combinations of such NRBA asdescribed herein.

The term “alkyl” refers, in one embodiment, to a saturated aliphatichydrocarbon, including straight-chain, branched-chain and cyclic alkylgroups. In one embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-12 carbons. In anotherembodiment, the alkyl group has 1-7 carbons. In another embodiment, thealkyl group has 1-6 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkyl group has1-4 carbons. In another embodiment, the cyclic alkyl group has 3-8carbons. In another embodiment, the cyclic alkyl group has 3-12 carbons.In another embodiment, the branched alkyl is an alkyl substituted byalkyl side chains of 1 to 5 carbons. In another embodiment, the branchedalkyl is an alkyl substituted by haloalkyl side chains of 1 to 5carbons. The alkyl group may be unsubstituted or substituted by ahalogen, haloalkyl, hydroxyl, cyano, alkoxy carbonyl, amido, alkylamido,dialkylamido, nitro, amino, alkylamino, dialkylamino, carboxyl, thioand/or thioalkyl.

An “alkenyl” group refers, in another embodiment, to an unsaturatedhydrocarbon, including straight chain, branched chain and cyclic groupshaving one or more double bonds. The alkenyl group may have one doublebond, two double bonds, three double bonds, etc. In another embodiment,the alkenyl group has 2-12 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkenylgroup has 2-6 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkenyl group has 2-4carbons. In another embodiment the alkenyl group is vinyl (—CH═CH₂).Examples of alkenyl groups are vinyl, propenyl, butenyl, cyclohexenyl,etc. The alkenyl group may be unsubstituted or substituted by a halogen,hydroxy, cyano, alkoxy carbonyl, amido, alkylamido, dialkylamido, nitro,amino, alkylamino, dialkylamino, carboxyl, thio and/or thioalkyl.

The term “cycloalkyl” refers to a monocyclic, bicyclic or tricyclicnonaromatic saturated hydrocarbon radical having 3 to 10 carbon atoms,such as 3 to 8 carbon atoms, for example, 3 to 6 carbon atoms. Nonlimiting examples of cycloalkyl groups include cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl,cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, cycloheptyl, cyclooctyl, norbornyl, 1-decalin,adamant-1-yl, and adamant-2-yl. Other suitable cycloalkyl groupsinclude, but are not limited to, spiropentyl, bicyclo[2.1.0]pentyl,bicyclo[3.1.0]hexyl, spiro[2.4]heptyl, spiro[2.5]octyl,bicyclo[5.1.0]octyl, spiro[2.6]nonyl, bicyclo[2.2.0]hexyl,spiro[3.3]heptyl, bicyclo[4.2.0]octyl, and spiro[3.5]nonyl.

A “haloalkyl” group refers, in another embodiment, to an alkyl group asdefined above, which is substituted by one or more halogen atoms, e.g.by F, Cl, Br or I.

An “aryl” group refers, in another embodiment, to an aromatic grouphaving at least one carbocyclic aromatic group or heterocyclic aromaticgroup, which may be unsubstituted or substituted by one or more groupsselected from halogen, haloalkyl, hydroxy, alkoxy carbonyl, amido,alkylamido, dialkylamido, nitro, amino, alkylamino, dialkylamino,carboxy or thio or thioalkyl. Nonlimiting examples of aryl rings arephenyl, naphthyl, pyranyl, pyrrolyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazolyl,pyridinyl, furanyl, thiophenyl, thiazolyl, imidazolyl, isoxazolyl, andthe like.

A “hydroxyl” group refers, in another embodiment, to an OH group. Insome embodiments, when R₁, R₂ or R₃ of the compounds of the presentinvention is OR, then R is not OH.

In one embodiment, the term “halo” refers to a halogen, such as F, Cl,Br or I.

In another embodiment, the phrase “phenol” refers to an alcohol (OH)derivative of benzene.

A “heterocycle” group refers, in one embodiment, to a ring structurecomprising in addition to carbon atoms, sulfur, oxygen, nitrogen or anycombination thereof, as part of the ring. In another embodiment theheterocycle is a 3-12 membered ring. In another embodiment theheterocycle is a 6 membered ring. In another embodiment the heterocycleis a 5-7 membered ring. In another embodiment the heterocycle is a 4-8membered ring. In another embodiment, the heterocycle group may beunsubstituted or substituted by a halogen, haloalkyl, hydroxyl, alkoxy,carbonyl, amido, alkylamido, dialkylamido, cyano, nitro, CO₂H, amino,alkylamino, dialkylamino, carboxyl, thio and/or thioalkyl. In anotherembodiment, the heterocycle ring may be fused to another saturated orunsaturated cycloalkyl or heterocyclic 3-8 membered ring. In anotherembodiment, the heterocyclic ring is a saturated ring. In anotherembodiment, the heterocyclic ring is an unsaturated ring. Examples of aheterocycle group comprise pyridine, piperidine, morpholine, piperazine,thiophene, pyrrole or indole.

In one embodiment the 5-14 member saturated or unsaturated, substitutedor unsubstituted carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring comprises a phenyl,naphthalene, anthracene, pyridine, piperidine, thiophene, morpholine,piperazine, pyrimidine, cyclohexyl, cycloheptyl, pyrrole, pyrazole,furan, oxazole, quinoline, pyrazine or indole groups.

In one embodiment unsaturated cycloalkyl or heterocycloalkyl groupsrefer to cycloalkyl or heterocycloalkyl comprising at list one doublebond. In another embodiment unsaturated cycloalkyl or heterocycloalkylrefer to an aryl or heteroaryl group.

In some embodiments, protected hydroxyl includes the incorporation of asubstituent bonded to an oxygen atom bound to a benzene ring, whereinthe substituent may be readily removed. In some embodiments, phenolicprotecting groups may comprise a: methyl ether, methoxymethyl (MOM)ether, benzoyloxymethyl (BOM) ether, methoxyethoxymethyl (MEM) ether,2-(trimethylsilyl)ethoxymethyl(SEM) ether, methylthiomethyl (MTM) ether,phenylthiomethyl (PTM) ether, azidomethyl ether, cyanomethyl ether,2,2-dichloro-1,1-difluoroethyl ether, 2-chloroethyl ether, 2-bromoethylether, tetrahydropyranyl (THP) ether, 1-ethoxyethyl (EE) ether, phenacylether, 4-bromophenacyl ether, cyclopropylmethyl ether, allyl ether,propargyl ether, isopropyl ether, cyclohexyl ether, t-butyl ether,benzyl ether, 2,6-dimethylbenzyl ether, 4-methoxybenzyl ether,o-nitrobenzyl ether, 2,6-dichlorobenzyl ether, 3,4-dichlorobenzyl ether,4-(dimethylamino)carbonylbenzyl ether, 4-methylsulfinylbenzyl ether,4-anthrylmethyl ether, 4-picolyl ether, heptafluoro-p-tolyl,tetrafluoro-4-pyridyl ether, trimethylsilyl (TMS) ether,t-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) ether, t-butyldiphenylsilyl (TBDPS) ether,triisopropylsilyl (TIPS) ether, aryl formate, arylacetate, aryllevulinate, arylpivaloate, aryl benzoate, aryl 9-fluorenecarboxylate,aryl methyl carbonate, 1-adamantyl carbonate, t-butyl carbonate,4-methylsulfinylbenzyl carbonate, 2,4-dimethylpent-3-yl carbonate,aryl-2,2,2-trichloroethyl carbonate, aryl benzyl carbonate, arylcarbamate, dimethylphosphinyl ester (Dmp-OAr), dimethylphosphinothionylester (Mpt-OAr), diphenylphosphinothionyl ester (Dpt-OAr), arylmethanesulfonate, aryl toluenesulfonate or aryl2-formylbenzenesulfonate.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a NRBA and/or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, ester, polymorph,impurity or crystal or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, thisinvention provides an analog of the NRBA. In another embodiment, thisinvention provides a derivative of the NRBA. In another embodiment, thisinvention provides an isomer of the NRBA. In another embodiment, thisinvention provides a metabolite of the NRBA. In another embodiment, thisinvention provides a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the NRBA. Inanother embodiment, this invention provides a pharmaceutical product ofthe NRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides a hydrate ofthe NRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides an N-oxide ofthe NRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides a prodrug ofthe NRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides an ester of theNRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides a polymorph of theNRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides a crystal of theNRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides an impurity of theNRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides compositioncomprising a NRBA, as described herein, or, in another embodiment, acombination of an analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, ester, impurity or crystal of the NRBA ofthe present invention.

In one embodiment, this invention provides use of an estrogen receptorligand compound and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, ester, polymorph, impurity or crystal or combinationsthereof. In one embodiment, this invention provides an analog of anestrogen receptor ligand compound. In another embodiment, this inventionprovides a derivative of an estrogen receptor ligand compound. Inanother embodiment, this invention provides an isomer of an estrogenreceptor ligand compound. In another embodiment, this invention providesa metabolite of an estrogen receptor ligand compound. In anotherembodiment, this invention provides a pharmaceutically acceptable saltof an estrogen receptor ligand compound. In another embodiment, thisinvention provides a pharmaceutical product of the estrogen receptorligand compound. In another embodiment, this invention provides ahydrate of an estrogen receptor ligand compound. In another embodiment,this invention provides an N-oxide of an estrogen receptor ligandcompound. In another embodiment, this invention provides a prodrug of anestrogen receptor ligand compound. In another embodiment, this inventionprovides an ester of an estrogen receptor ligand compound. In anotherembodiment, this invention provides a polymorph of an estrogen receptorligand compound. In another embodiment, this invention provides acrystal of an estrogen receptor ligand compound. In another embodiment,this invention provides an impurity of an estrogen receptor ligandcompound.

In one embodiment, the term “isomer” includes, but is not limited to,optical isomers and analogs, structural isomers and analogs,conformational isomers and analogs, and the like.

In one embodiment, the term “isomer” is meant to encompass stereoisomersof the compound. The compounds of this invention possess an amide bondwhich may be in its cis or trans isomerisation. In one embodiment, theNRBAs are the pure (E)-isomers. In another embodiment, the NRBAs are thepure (Z)-isomers. In another embodiment, the NRBAs are a mixture of the(E) and the (Z) isomers. In one embodiment, the NRBAs are the pure(R)-isomers. In another embodiment, the NRBAs are the pure (S)-isomers.In another embodiment, the NRBAs are a mixture of the (R) and the (S)isomers. It is to be understood that the present invention encompassesany optically-active, or stereoisomeric form, or mixtures thereof, anduse of these for any application is to be considered within the scope ofthis invention.

The invention includes “pharmaceutically acceptable salts” of thecompounds of this invention, which may be produced by reaction of acompound of this invention with an acid or base.

Suitable pharmaceutically-acceptable salts of amines of Formula I-XIImay be prepared from an inorganic acid or from an organic acid. In oneembodiment, examples of inorganic salts of amines are bisulfates,borates, bromides, chlorides, hemisulfates, hydrobromates,hydrochlorates, 2-hydroxyethylsulfonates (hydroxyethanesulfonates),iodates, iodides, isothionates, nitrate, persulfates, phosphate,sulfates, sulfamates, sulfanilates, sulfonic acids (alkylsulfonates,arylsulfonates, halogen substituted alkylsulfonates, halogen substitutedarylsulfonates), sulfonates and thiocyanates.

In one embodiment, examples of organic salts of amines may be selectedfrom aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, aromatic, araliphatic, heterocyclic,carboxylic and sulfonic classes of organic acids, examples of which areacetates, arginines, aspartates, ascorbates, adipates, anthranilate,algenates, alkane carboxylates, substituted alkane carboxylates,alginates, benzenesulfonates, benzoates, bisulfates, butyrates,bicarbonates, bitartrates, citrates, camphorates, camphorsulfonates,cyclohexylsulfamates, cyclopentanepropionates, calcium edetates,camsylates, carbonates, clavulanates, cinnamates, dicarboxylates,digluconates, dodecylsulfonates, dihydrochlorides, decanoates,enanthuates, ethanesulfonates, edetates, edisylates, estolates,esylates, fumarates, formates, fluorides, galacturonates gluconates,glutamates, glycolates, glucorate, glucoheptanoates, glycerophosphates,gluceptates, glycollylarsanilates, glutarates, glutamate, heptanoates,hexanoates, hydroxymaleates, hydroxycarboxylic acids, hexylresorcinates,hydroxybenzoates, hydroxynaphthoate, hydrofluorate, lactates,lactobionates, laurates, malates, maleates,methylenebis(beta-oxynaphthoate), malonates, mandelates, mesylates,methane sulfonates, methylbromides, methylnitrates, methylsulfonates,monopotassium maleates, mucates, monocarboxylates, mitrates,naphthalenesulfonates, 2-naphthalenesulfonates, nicotinates, napsylates,N-methylglucamines, oxalates, octanoates, oleates, pamoates,phenylacetates, picrates, phenylbenzoates, pivalates, propionates,phthalates, phenylacetate, pectinates, phenylpropionates, palmitates,pantothenates, polygalacturates, pyruvates, quinates, salicylates,succinates, stearates, sulfanilate, subacetates, tartrates,theophyllineacetates, p-toluenesulfonates (tosylates),trifluoroacetates, terephthalates, tannates, teoclates, trihaloacetates,triethiodide, tricarboxylates, undecanoates and valerates.

In one embodiment, examples of inorganic salts of carboxylic acids orphenols may be selected from ammonium, alkali metals to include lithium,sodium, potassium, cesium; alkaline earth metals to include calcium,magnesium, aluminium; zinc, barium, cholines, quaternary ammoniums.

In another embodiment, examples of organic salts of carboxylic acids orphenols may be selected from arginine, organic amines to includealiphatic organic amines, alicyclic organic amines, aromatic organicamines, benzathines, t-butylamines, benethamines(N-benzylphenethylamine), dicyclohexylamines, dimethylamines,diethanolamines, ethanolamines, ethylenediamines, hydrabamines,imidazoles, lysines, methylamines, meglamines, N-methyl-D-glucamines,N,N′-dibenzylethylenediamines, nicotinamides, organic amines,ornithines, pyridines, picolies, piperazines, procain,tris(hydroxymethyl)methylamines, triethylamines, triethanolamines,trimethylamines, tromethamines and ureas.

In one embodiment, the salts may be formed by conventional means, suchas by reacting the free base or free acid form of the product with oneor more equivalents of the appropriate acid or base in a solvent ormedium in which the salt is insoluble or in a solvent such as water,which is removed in vacuo or by freeze drying or by exchanging the ionsof a existing salt for another ion or suitable ion-exchange resin.

In one embodiment the pharmaceutically acceptable salt is ahydrochloride salt. In one embodiment the pharmaceutically acceptablesalt is an acrylate salt. In one embodiment the pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt is a benzoate salt. In one embodiment thepharmaceutically acceptable salt is a trifluoromethanesulfonate salt. Inone embodiment the pharmaceutically acceptable salt is an acetate salt.

In one embodiment, the pharmaceutically acceptable salt of a NRBAcomprising a piperidine ring is an HCl salt or an amine salt asdescribed herein. In another embodiment, the pharmaceutically acceptablesalt of a NRBA comprising a pyrrolidine ring is an HCl salt, or an aminesalt as described herein. In another embodiment, the pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt of a NRBA comprising a morpholine ring is an HCl salt oran amine salt as described herein. In another embodiment, thepharmaceutically acceptable salt of a NRBA comprising a piperazine ringis an HCl salt, or an amine salt as described herein or others as willbe appreciated by one skilled in the art.

Pharmaceutically acceptable salts can be prepared from the phenoliccompounds, in other embodiments, by treatment with inorganic bases, forexample, sodium hydroxide. In another embodiment, esters of the phenoliccompounds can be made with aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids, forexample, acetic acid and benzoic acid esters.

This invention provides, in some embodiments, derivatives of the NRBAs.In one embodiment, the term “derivatives” refers to ether derivatives,acid derivatives, amide derivatives, ester derivatives or others, asknown in the art.

In another embodiment, this invention further includes hydrates of theNRBAs. In one embodiment, the term “hydrate” refers to hemihydrate,monohydrate, dihydrate, trihydrate or others, as known in the art.

This invention provides, in other embodiments, metabolites of the NRBAs.In one embodiment, the term “metabolite” refers to any substanceproduced from another substance by metabolism or a metabolic process.

In some embodiments, a NRBA this invention will comprise the compoundslisted in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides use of a compositioncomprising an estrogen receptor ligand compound, as described herein,or, in another embodiment, any combination of an analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, ester, impurity orcrystal of an estrogen receptor ligand as described herein.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention will have a selectiveaffinity for a particular nuclear hormone receptor, with varyingaffinities at other nuclear receptors. In some embodiments of thisinvention, NRBAs of this invention will vary in terms of their activity,for example, some NRBAs possess greater activity in terms of stimulatingbone growth, while some exhibit greater antagonistic activity, etc. Itis to be understood that all such NRBAs are to be considered as part ofthis invention.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitnonselective affinity for or binding to a nuclear receptor, which insome embodiments, is an estrogen receptor α and/or estrogen receptor βmolecule. In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitselective affinity for a nuclear receptor such as ER-β. In someembodiment, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibit selective affinityfor receptors that do not translocate to the cell nucleus. In someembodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibit agonist activity.In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibit antagonistactivity. In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitagonist activity for a particular receptor, and antagonist activity fora different receptor, or vice versa, or in some embodiments, the NRBAsof this invention may exhibit agonist activity for a particular receptorunder certain experimental conditions, yet exhibit antagonist activityfor the same receptor under different experimental conditions, or viceversa, or in some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitagonist activity for a particular receptor in a particular tissue, yetexhibit antagonist activity for the same receptor in a different tissue,or vice versa, etc. It is to be understood that a single describedactivity for a NRBA this invention is not to be taken as limiting thecompound to such activity/condition/tissue exclusively, but rather torepresent an embodiment of one such activity for the indicated NRBA.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitanti-proliferative activity.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitanti-inflammatory activity.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitanti-oxidant activity.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitvasodilatory activity. In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this inventionmay exhibit cardioprotective activity.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention may exhibitpro-differentiation activity.

ER-α and ER-β binding and agonist and antagonist activities,anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory activities for representativeNRBAs are exemplified hereinbelow, where such activity is described inthe context of specific experimental conditions employed, representingonly certain embodiments of this invention, and in no way to be taken tolimiting the invention. It is to be understood that while the indicatedcompounds may exhibit a particular activity under certain experimentalconditions employed, as a function, in some embodiments, of theparticular cells utilized, etc., such compounds may possess alternate,varied, or partial activity in different experimental settings.

Steroid nuclear hormone receptors are known to have rapid,tissue-specific effects that are mediated by cell-surface and cytosolicreceptors through protein-protein interaction or phosphorylation ofkinases, which are known as non-genomic effects. For instance, NRBAs areknown to have distinct rapid effects in the cardiovascular and centralnervous systems which may be mediated by distinct receptors. Putativereceptors for these non-genomic effects include a variety of G-proteincoupled receptors (GPCRs) such as GPR130, as well as cell-membraneassociated or cytosolic nuclear receptors. NRBAs of this invention mayalso bind to receptors involved in these non-genomic effects allowingdifferential pharmacological exploitation of genomic, non-genomic, andtissue-selective steroid receptor activities. As such these NRBAs mayhave a wide variety of specific and targeted steroid responsesbroadening their potential to have beneficial medical properties.

In some embodiments, a NRBA of this invention is a non-genomic agonist,or in some embodiments, a non-genomic antagonist, or in someembodiments, a non-genomic partial agonist of a nuclear receptor. Insome embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention are tissue selective,non-genomic nuclear receptors, such as for example, estrogen or androgenreceptor agonists, or in some embodiments, tissue selective, non-genomicnuclear receptor antagonists, or in some embodiments, tissue selective,non-genomic nuclear receptor partial agonists. In some embodiments, theNRBAs of this invention are non-selective non-genomic nuclear receptoragonists, such as for example, estrogen or androgen receptor agonists,or in some embodiments, non-selective non-genomic nuclear receptorantagonists, or in some embodiments, non-selective non-genomic nuclearreceptor partial agonists. In some embodiments, the NRBAs of thisinvention are non-selective genomic nuclear receptor agonists, such asfor example, estrogen or androgen receptor agonists, or in someembodiments, antagonists, or in some embodiments, partial agonists.

In some embodiments, the NRBAs of this invention are tissue selectivegenomic nuclear receptor modulators, such as for example, estrogen orandrogen receptor agonists, or in some embodiments, antagonists, or insome embodiments, partial agonists. In some embodiments, the NRBAs ofthis invention are genomic agents which selectively transactivatenuclear receptor-regulated genes. In some embodiments, selectivetransactivation is in a tissue selective manner. In some embodiments,the NRBAs of this invention are genomic agents which selectivelytransrepress nuclear receptor-regulated genes. In some embodiments,selective tranrepression is in a tissue selective manner. In someembodiments, the NRBAs are dissociated in their ability to affectnon-genomic process but not genomic processes, or vice versa. In someembodiments, NRBA's are dissociated in their ability to affecttransactivation but not transrepression, or vice versa.

This invention provides, in other embodiments, pharmaceutical productsof the NRBAs. The term “pharmaceutical product” refers, in otherembodiments, to a composition suitable for pharmaceutical use(pharmaceutical composition), for example, as described herein.

The NRBAs useful in the compositions of the present invention may existin prodrug form. As used herein, “prodrug” is intended to include anycovalently bonded carriers which release the active parent drugaccording to Formula (I) or other formulas or compounds of the presentinvention in vivo when such prodrug is administered to a subject. Sinceprodrugs are known to enhance numerous desirable qualities ofpharmaceuticals (e.g., solubility, bioavailability, manufacturing, etc.)the compounds useful in the compositions of the present invention may bedelivered in prodrug form. Thus, the present invention includescompositions containing prodrugs of the disclosed compounds and methodsof delivering the same. Prodrugs of a compound of the present inventionmay be prepared by modifying functional groups present in the compoundin such a way that the modifications are cleaved, either in routinemanipulation or in vivo, to the parent compound.

Accordingly, prodrugs include, for example, compounds of the presentinvention wherein a hydroxy, amino, or carboxy group is bonded to anygroup that, when the prodrug is administered to a mammalian subject,cleaves to form a free hydroxyl, free amino, or carboxylic acid,respectively. Examples include, but are not limited to, acetate, formateand benzoate derivatives of alcohol and amine functional groups; andalkyl, carbocyclic, aryl, and alkylaryl esters such as methyl, ethyl,propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, cyclopropyl,phenyl, benzyl, and phenethyl esters, and the like.

As known in the art, polymorphism is an ability of a compound tocrystallize as more than one distinct crystalline or “polymorphic”species. As used herein a “polymorph” is a solid crystalline phase of acompound with at least two different arrangements or polymorphic formsof that compound molecule in the solid state. Polymorphic forms of anygiven compound are defined by the same chemical formula or compositionand are as distinct in structure as crystals of two different chemicalcompounds.

The term “about” or “approximately” as used herein means within anacceptable error range for the particular value as determined by one ofordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value ismeasured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system.For example, “about” can mean within 1 or more than 1 standarddeviations, per the practice in the art. Alternatively, “about” can meana range of up to 20%, up to 10% or up to 5% of a given value.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of binding any NRBAof this invention to an estrogen receptor or an estrogen relatedreceptors, comprising the step of contacting an estrogen receptor withsaid NRBA. In another embodiment, this invention provides a method ofbinding any NRBA of this invention to a nuclear hormone receptor or onerelated thereto.

In one embodiment, this invention provides general and specificsynthetic routes for embodiments of isoquinolinones andisoquinolin-6-ols.

Some embodiments of a synthetic procedure for some of the NRBAs areprovided below:

Intermediate compound 4 can be prepared by three different pathsstarting from 2-(2-carboxy-vinyl)benzoic acid (compound 1) via step a;or starting with 3-phenyl-acrylic acid, (compound 2) together withsodium azide (step b) to obtain an acyl derivative of compound 3,followed by Curtius rearrangement and a cyclization step (step c) in thepresence of diphenyl ether and tributylamine at 230° C. to obtaincompound 4; or starting with 2-iodo benzonitrile (compound 10) via theSonogashira reaction (step i) followed by methanolysis (step j) toobtain compound 4.

Compound 4 is further coupled with an iodo substituted formula A (stepd), yielding compound 5, which may be further brominated, chlorinated,or iodinated (using NBS, NCS, or NIS, respectively) followed by furthersubstitutions to obtain the desired R₂ group (step f) compound 8 orcompound 8′, or obtain the sulfone compound 9 using P₂S₅ reagent (steph). Compounds 8 or 9 can be optionally demethylated with BBr₃ to yieldthe phenolic products, however if step h is executed, then the phenolmust be protected.

Alternatively, compound 4 may be brominated, chlorinated, or iodinated(using NBS, NCS, or NIS, respectively) and further substituted (step e)to obtain the desired R₂ of compound 6 or 6′. Compound 6 or 6′ may becoupled together with an iodo substituted formula A (step d), yieldingcompound 8 or 8′, or the OH group of compound 6 or 6′ is furthersubstituted (step g) to obtain the desired X group of compound 7 orcompound 7′.

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route forembodiments of 4-halogenated isoquinolinones. For example, oneembodiment of a synthetic procedure for a compound of this invention,4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one, is asfollows:

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route forembodiments of 6,8-dihydroxy-isoquinolinones. An example of theseembodiments of this invention provides a synthetic route for4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12u).

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route forembodiments of 4-alkenyl isoquinolinones. An example of theseembodiments of this invention provides a synthetic route for6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one (14f)compound.

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route forembodiments of 4-carbonitrile derivatives of1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolines. For example, this invention providessynthetic routes for6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile(14h) from 12b.

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route forembodiments of 8-carbonitrile derivatives of1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolines. For example, this invention providessynthetic routes for4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile(14k):

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route for 14ocompound

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic route for 14pcompound

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic routes for 14xME,14xME-AC and 14xAC compounds.

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic routes for4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbimidicacid (14yAM), methyl4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carboxylate(14yME), and4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carboxylicacid (14z) compounds.

In some embodiments this invention provides synthetic routes for6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one (15a).

In some embodiments the following compounds are synthesized via Suzukicoupling reactions as described for compound 15i.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

In some embodiments, this invention provides methods of use whichcomprise administering a composition comprising the described compounds.As used herein, “pharmaceutical composition” means a “therapeuticallyeffective amount” of the active ingredient, i.e. the compound of thisinvention, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier ordiluent. A “therapeutically effective amount” as used herein refers tothat amount which provides a therapeutic effect for a given conditionand administration regimen.

As used herein, the term “administering” refers to bringing a subject incontact with a compound of the present invention. As used herein,administration can be accomplished in vitro, i.e. in a test tube, or invivo, i.e. in cells or tissues of living organisms, for example humans.In one embodiment, the present invention encompasses administering thecompounds of the present invention to a subject.

The pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds of thisinvention can be administered to a subject by any method known to aperson skilled in the art, such as orally, parenterally,intravascularly, paracancerally, transmucosally, transdermally,intramuscularly, intranasally, intravenously, intradermally,subcutaneously, sublingually, intraperitonealy, intraventricularly,intracranially, intravaginally, by inhalation, rectally, intratumorally,intracardially, intra-arterially, intracranially, via endomyocardialinjection or by any means in which the pharmaceutical composition can bedelivered to tissue (e.g., needle or catheter). Alternatively, topicaladministration may be desired for application to mucosal cells, for skinor ocular application. Another method of administration is viaaspiration or aerosol formulation. Another method of administration isvia incorporation in a stent or drug eluting stent.

In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions are administeredorally, and are thus formulated in a form suitable for oraladministration, i.e. as a solid or a liquid preparation. Suitable solidoral formulations include tablets, capsules, pills, granules, pellets,powders, and the like. Suitable liquid oral formulations includesolutions, suspensions, dispersions, emulsions, oils and the like. Inone embodiment of the present invention, the compounds are formulated ina capsule. In accordance with this embodiment, the compositions of thepresent invention comprise in addition to a compound of this inventionand the inert carrier or diluent, a hard gelatin capsule.

In one embodiment, the micronized capsules comprise particles containinga compound of this invention, wherein the term “micronized” used hereinrefers to particles having a particle size is of less than 200 microns,or in another embodiment less than 100 microns, or in anotherembodiment, less than 60 microns, or in another embodiment, less than 36microns, or in another embodiment, less than 16 microns, or in anotherembodiment, less than 10 microns, or in another embodiment, less than 6microns.

Further, in another embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions areadministered by intravenous, intraarterial, or intramuscular injectionof a liquid preparation. Suitable liquid formulations include solutions,suspensions, dispersions, emulsions, oils and the like. In oneembodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions are administeredintravenously, and are thus formulated in a form suitable forintravenous administration. In another embodiment, the pharmaceuticalcompositions are administered intraarterially, and are thus formulatedin a form suitable for intraarterial administration. In anotherembodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions are administeredintramuscularly, and are thus formulated in a form suitable forintramuscular administration.

Further, in another embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions areadministered topically to body surfaces, and are thus formulated in aform suitable for topical administration. Suitable topical formulationsinclude gels, ointments, creams, lotions, drops and the like. Fortopical administration, the compounds of this invention or theirphysiologically tolerated derivatives such as salts, esters, N-oxides,and the like are prepared and applied as solutions, suspensions, oremulsions in a physiologically acceptable diluent with or without apharmaceutical carrier.

Further, in another embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions areadministered as a suppository, for example a rectal suppository or aurethral suppository. Further, in another embodiment, the pharmaceuticalcompositions are administered by subcutaneous implantation of a pellet.In a further embodiment, the pellet provides for controlled release of acompound as herein described over a period of time. In a furtherembodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions are administeredintravaginally.

In another embodiment, the active compound can be delivered in avesicle, in particular a liposome (see Langer, Science 249:1627-1633(1990); Treat et al., in Liposomes in the Therapy of Infectious Diseaseand Cancer, Lopez-Berestein and Fidler (eds.), Liss, New York, pp.363-366 (1989); Lopez-Berestein, ibid., pp. 317-327; see generallyibid).

As used herein “pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or diluents” arewell known to those skilled in the art. The carrier or diluent may be asolid carrier or diluent for solid formulations, a liquid carrier ordiluent for liquid formulations, or mixtures thereof.

Solid carriers/diluents include, but are not limited to, a gum, a starch(e.g. corn starch, pregeletanized starch), a sugar (e.g., lactose,mannitol, sucrose, dextrose), a cellulosic material (e.g.microcrystalline cellulose), an acrylate (e.g. polymethylacrylate),calcium carbonate, magnesium oxide, talc, or mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment, the compositions of this invention may include, acompound of this invention or any combination thereof, together with oneor more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

It is to be understood that this invention encompasses any embodiment ofa compound as described herein, which in some embodiments is referred toas “a compound of this invention”.

Suitable excipients and carriers may be, according to embodiments of theinvention, solid or liquid and the type is generally chosen based on thetype of administration being used. Liposomes may also be used to deliverthe composition. Examples of suitable solid carriers include lactose,sucrose, gelatin and agar. Oral dosage forms may contain suitablebinders, lubricants, diluents, disintegrating agents, coloring agents,flavoring agents, flow-inducing agents, and melting agents. Liquiddosage forms may contain, for example, suitable solvents, preservatives,emulsifying agents, suspending agents, diluents, sweeteners, thickeners,and melting agents. Parenteral and intravenous forms should also includeminerals and other materials to make them compatible with the type ofinjection or delivery system chosen. Of course, other excipients mayalso be used.

For liquid formulations, pharmaceutically acceptable carriers may beaqueous or non-aqueous solutions, suspensions, emulsions or oils.Examples of non-aqueous solvents are propylene glycol, polyethyleneglycol, and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Aqueouscarriers include water, alcoholic/aqueous solutions, cyclodextrins,emulsions or suspensions, including saline and buffered media. Examplesof oils are those of petroleum, animal, vegetable, or synthetic origin,for example, peanut oil, soybean oil, mineral oil, olive oil, sunfloweroil, and fish-liver oil.

Parenteral vehicles (for subcutaneous, intravenous, intraarterial, orintramuscular injection) include sodium chloride solution, Ringer'sdextrose, dextrose and sodium chloride, lactated Ringer's and fixedoils. Intravenous vehicles include fluid and nutrient replenishers,electrolyte replenishers such as those based on Ringer's dextrose, andthe like. Examples are sterile liquids such as water and oils, with orwithout the addition of a surfactant and other pharmaceuticallyacceptable adjuvants. In general, water, saline, aqueous dextrose andrelated sugar solutions, and glycols such as propylene glycols orpolyethylene glycol are preferred liquid carriers, particularly forinjectable solutions. Examples of oils are those of petroleum, animal,vegetable, or synthetic origin, for example, peanut oil, soybean oil,mineral oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, and fish-liver oil.

In addition, the compositions may further comprise binders (e.g. acacia,cornstarch, gelatin, carbomer, ethyl cellulose, guar gum, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, povidone), disintegratingagents (e.g. cornstarch, potato starch, alginic acid, silicon dioxide,croscarmellose sodium, crospovidone, guar gum, sodium starch glycolate),buffers (e.g., Tris-HCl., acetate, phosphate) of various pH and ionicstrength, additives such as albumin or gelatin to prevent absorption tosurfaces, detergents (e.g., Tween 20, Tween 80, Pluronic F68, bile acidsalts), protease inhibitors, surfactants (e.g. sodium lauryl sulfate),permeation enhancers, solubilizing agents (e.g., cremophor, glycerol,polyethylene glycerol, benzalkonium chloride, benzyl benzoate,cyclodextrins, sobitan esters, stearic acids), anti-oxidants (e.g.,ascorbic acid, sodium metabisulfite, butylated hydroxyanisole),stabilizers (e.g. hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose), viscosity increasing agents (e.g. carbomer, colloidalsilicon dioxide, ethyl cellulose, guar gum), sweetners (e.g. aspartame,citric acid), preservatives (e.g., Thimerosal, benzyl alcohol,parabens), coloring agents, lubricants (e.g. stearic acid, magnesiumstearate, polyethylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate), flow-aids (e.g.colloidal silicon dioxide), plasticizers (e.g. diethyl phthalate,triethyl citrate), emulsifiers (e.g. carbomer, hydroxypropyl cellulose,sodium lauryl sulfate), polymer coatings (e.g., poloxamers orpoloxamines), coating and film forming agents (e.g. ethyl cellulose,acrylates, polymethacrylates), and/or adjuvants.

In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions provided herein arecontrolled release compositions, i.e. compositions in which the compoundof this invention is released over a period of time afteradministration. Controlled or sustained release compositions includeformulation in lipophilic depots (e.g. fatty acids, waxes, oils). Inanother embodiment, the composition is an immediate release composition,i.e. a composition in which all of the compound is released immediatelyafter administration.

In yet another embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition can bedelivered in a controlled release system. For example, the agent may beadministered using intravenous infusion, an implantable osmotic pump, atransdermal patch, liposomes, or other modes of administration. In oneembodiment, a pump may be used (see Langer, supra; Sefton, CRC Crit.Ref. Biomed. Eng. 14:201 (1987); Buchwald et al., Surgery 88:607 (1980);Saudek et al., N. Engl. J. Med. 321:674 (1989). In another embodiment,polymeric materials can be used. In yet another embodiment, a controlledrelease system can be placed in proximity to the therapeutic target,i.e., the brain, thus requiring only a fraction of the systemic dose(see, e.g., Goodson, in Medical Applications of Controlled Release,supra, vol. 2, pp. 116-138 (1984). Other controlled release systems arediscussed in the review by Langer (Science 249:1627-1633 (1990).

The compositions may also include incorporation of the active materialinto or onto particulate preparations of polymeric compounds such aspolylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, hydrogels, etc, or onto liposomes,microemulsions, micelles, unilamellar or multilamellar vesicles,erythrocyte ghosts, or spheroplasts.) Such compositions will influencethe physical state, solubility, stability, rate of in vivo release, andrate of in vivo clearance.

Also comprehended by the invention are particulate compositions coatedwith polymers (e.g. poloxamers or poloxamines) and the compound coupledto antibodies directed against tissue-specific receptors, ligands orantigens or coupled to ligands of tissue-specific receptors.

Also comprehended by the invention are compounds modified by thecovalent attachment of water-soluble polymers such as polyethyleneglycol, copolymers of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol,carboxymethyl cellulose, dextran, polyvinyl alcohol,polyvinylpyrrolidone or polyproline. The modified compounds are known toexhibit substantially longer half-lives in blood following intravenousinjection than do the corresponding unmodified compounds (Abuchowski etal., 1981; Newmark et al., 1982; and Katre et al., 1987). Suchmodifications may also increase the compound's solubility in aqueoussolution, eliminate aggregation, enhance the physical and chemicalstability of the compound, and greatly reduce the immunogenicity andreactivity of the compound. As a result, the desired in vivo biologicalactivity may be achieved by the administration of such polymer-compoundabducts less frequently or in lower doses than with the unmodifiedcompound.

The preparation of pharmaceutical compositions which contain an activecomponent is well understood in the art, for example by mixing,granulating, or tablet-forming processes. The active therapeuticingredient is often mixed with excipients which are pharmaceuticallyacceptable and compatible with the active ingredient. For oraladministration, the compounds of this invention or their physiologicallytolerated derivatives such as salts, esters, N-oxides, and the like aremixed with additives customary for this purpose, such as vehicles,stabilizers, or inert diluents, and converted by customary methods intosuitable forms for administration, such as tablets, coated tablets, hardor soft gelatin capsules, aqueous, alcoholic or oily solutions. Forparenteral administration, the compounds of this invention or theirphysiologically tolerated derivatives such as salts, esters, N-oxides,and the like are converted into a solution, suspension, or emulsion, ifdesired with the substances customary and suitable for this purpose, forexample, solubilizers or other.

An active component can be formulated into the composition asneutralized pharmaceutically acceptable salt forms. Pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts include the acid addition salts (formed with the freeamino groups of the polypeptide or antibody molecule), which are formedwith inorganic acids such as, for example, hydrochloric or phosphoricacids, or such organic acids as acetic, oxalic, tartaric, mandelic, andthe like. Salts formed from the free carboxyl groups can also be derivedfrom inorganic bases such as, for example, sodium, potassium, ammonium,calcium, or ferric hydroxides, and such organic bases as isopropylamine,trimethylamine, 2-ethylamino ethanol, histidine, procaine, and the like.

For use in medicine, the salts of the compound will be pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts. Other salts may, however, be useful in the preparationof the compounds according to the invention or of their pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable salts of thecompounds of this invention include acid addition salts which may, forexample, be formed by mixing a solution of the compound according to theinvention with a solution of a pharmaceutically acceptable acid such ashydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, methanesulphonic acid, fumaric acid,maleic acid, succinic acid, acetic acid, benzoic: acid, oxalic acid,citric acid, tartaric acid, carbonic acid or phosphoric acid.

In one embodiment, this invention provides pharmaceutical compositionscomprising a compound of this invention. In one embodiment, suchcompositions are useful for oral testosterone replacement therapy.

In one embodiment, this invention also provides a composition comprisingtwo or more compounds of this invention, or polymorphs, isomers,hydrates, salts, N-oxides, etc., thereof. The present invention alsorelates to compositions and pharmaceutical compositions which comprise acompound of this invention alone or in combination with a progestin orestrogen, or in another embodiment, chemotherapeutic compound,osteogenic or myogenic compound, or other agents suitable for theapplications as herein described. In one embodiment, the compositions ofthis invention will comprise a suitable carrier, diluent or salt.

In one embodiment, the methods of this invention may compriseadministration of a compound of this invention at various dosages. Inone embodiment, the compound of this invention is administered at adosage of about 0.1 to about 2000 mg per day. In one embodiment, thecompound of this invention is administered at a dosage of about 0.1 toabout 10 mg, or in another embodiment, about 0.1 to about 25 mg, or inanother embodiment, about 0.1 to about 60 mg, or in another embodiment,about 0.1 to about 200 mg, or in another embodiment, about 0.3 to about15 mg, or in another embodiment, about 0.3 to about 30 mg, or in anotherembodiment, about 0.5 to about 25 mg, or in another embodiment, about0.5 to about 60 mg, or in another embodiment, about 0.5 to about 15 mg,or in another embodiment, about 0.5 to about 60 mg, or in anotherembodiment, about 1 to about 5 mg, or in another embodiment, about 1 toabout 20 mg, or in another embodiment, about 3 to about 15 mg, or inanother embodiment, 30 to 60 mg, or in another embodiment, about 30 to75 mg, or in another embodiment, about 100 to about 2000 mg.

In one embodiment, the methods of this invention may compriseadministration of a compound of this invention at various dosages. Inone embodiment, the compound of this invention is administered at adosage of about 0.1 to about 2000 mg per day. In one embodiment, thecompound of this invention is administered at a dosage of about 0.1 toabout 10 mg per day, or in another embodiment, about 0.1 to about 25 mgper day, or in another embodiment, about 0.1 to about 60 mg per day, orin another embodiment, about 0.1 to about 200 mg per day, or in anotherembodiment, about 0.3 to about 15 mg per day, or in another embodiment,about 0.3 to about 30 mg per day, or in another embodiment, about 0.5 toabout 25 mg per day, or in another embodiment, about 0.5 to about 60 mgper day, or in another embodiment, about 0.5 to about 15 mg per day, orin another embodiment, about 0.5 to about 60 mg per day, or in anotherembodiment, about 1 to about 5 mg per day, or in another embodiment,about 1 to about 20 mg per day, or in another embodiment, about 3 toabout 15 mg per day, or in another embodiment, 30 to 60 mg per day, orin another embodiment, about 30 to 75 mg per day, or in anotherembodiment, about 100 to about 2000 mg per day, or in anotherembodiment, about 100 to about 500 mg per day.

In one embodiment, the compound of this invention is administered at adosage of about 0.01 to about 200 mg per kg per day. In one embodiment,the compound of this invention is administered at a dosage of about 0.01to about 10 mg per kg per day, or in another embodiment, about 0.01 toabout 25 mg per kg per day, or in one embodiment, the compound of thisinvention is administered at a dosage of about 0.01 to about 50 mg perkg per day, or in another embodiment, about 0.01 to about 60 mg per kgper day or in another embodiment, about 0.03 to about 15 mg per kg perday, or in another embodiment, about 0.03 to about 30 mg per kg per day,or in another embodiment, about 0.05 to about 25 mg per kg per day, orin another embodiment, about 0.05 to about 60 mg per kg per day, or inanother embodiment, about 30 mg per kg per day, or in anotherembodiment, about 20 mg per kg per day, or in another embodiment, about15 mg per kg per day, or in another embodiment, about 10 mg per kg perday, or in another embodiment, about 5 mg per kg per day.

In one embodiment, the compound of this invention is administered at adosage of about 1 mg. In another embodiment the compound of thisinvention is administered at a dosage of about 5 mg, about 10 mg, about15 mg, about 20 mg, about 25 mg, about 30 mg, about 35 mg, about 40 mg,about 45 mg, about 50 mg, about 55 mg, about 60 mg, about 65 mg, about70 mg, about 75 mg, about 80 mg, about 85 mg, about 90 mg, about 95 mg,about 100 mg, about 150 mg or about 200 mg.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods of usecomprising the administration of a pharmaceutical composition comprisinga) any embodiment of a compound as described herein; and b) apharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent; which is to beunderstood to include an analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof of a compound as herein described.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods of use of apharmaceutical composition comprising a) any embodiment of the compoundsas described herein, including an analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,N-oxide, hydrate thereof or any combination thereof; b) apharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent; c) a flow-aid; and d) alubricant.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides methods of use ofa pharmaceutical composition comprising a) any embodiment of thecompounds as described herein, including an analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,N-oxide, hydrate thereof or any combination thereof; b) lactosemonohydrate; c) microcrystalline cellulose; d) magnesium stearate; ande) colloidal silicon dioxide.

In some embodiments, the methods of this invention make use ofcompositions comprising compounds of this invention, which offer theadvantage that the compounds are nonsteroidal ligands for the estrogenreceptor, and exhibit estrogenic activity in vivo. According to thisaspect, such compounds are unaccompanied by serious side effects,provide convenient modes of administration, and lower production costsand are orally bioavailable, lack significant cross-reactivity withother undesired steroid receptors, and may possess long biologicalhalf-lives.

For administration to mammals, and particularly humans, it is expectedthat the physician will determine the actual dosage and duration oftreatment, which will be most suitable for an individual and can varywith the age, weight and response of the particular individual.

In one embodiment, the compositions for administration may be sterilesolutions, or in other embodiments, aqueous or non-aqueous, suspensionsor emulsions. In one embodiment, the compositions may comprise propyleneglycol, polyethylene glycol, injectable organic esters, for exampleethyl oleate, or cyclodextrins. In another embodiment, compositions mayalso comprise wetting, emulsifying and/or dispersing agents. In anotherembodiment, the compositions may also comprise sterile water or anyother sterile injectable medium.

In one embodiment, the invention provides compounds and compositions,including any embodiment described herein, for use in any of the methodsof this invention, as described herein. In one embodiment, use of acompound of this invention or a composition comprising the same, willhave utility in inhibiting, suppressing, enhancing or stimulating adesired response in a subject, as will be understood by one skilled inthe art. In another embodiment, the compositions may further compriseadditional active ingredients, whose activity is useful for theparticular application for which the compound of this invention is beingadministered.

In some embodiments, the methods of this invention make use ofcompositions comprising compounds of this invention, which offer theadvantage that the compounds are nonsteroidal ligands for the estrogenreceptor, and exhibit estrogenic activity in vivo. According to thisaspect, such compounds are unaccompanied by serious side effects,provide convenient modes of administration, and lower production costsand are orally bioavailable, lack significant cross-reactivity withother undesired steroid receptors, and may possess long biologicalhalf-lives.

For administration to mammals, and particularly humans, it is expectedthat the physician will determine the actual dosage and duration oftreatment, which will be most suitable for an individual and can varywith the age, weight and response of the particular individual.

In one embodiment, the compositions for administration may be sterilesolutions, or in other embodiments, aqueous or non-aqueous, suspensionsor emulsions. In one embodiment, the compositions may comprise propyleneglycol, polyethylene glycol, injectable organic esters, for exampleethyl oleate, or cyclodextrins. In another embodiment, compositions mayalso comprise wetting, emulsifying and/or dispersing agents. In anotherembodiment, the compositions may also comprise sterile water or anyother sterile injectable medium.

In one embodiment, the invention provides compounds and compositions,including any embodiment described herein, for use in any of the methodsof this invention. In one embodiment, use of a compound of thisinvention or a composition comprising the same, will have utility ininhibiting, suppressing, enhancing or stimulating a desired response ina subject, as will be understood by one skilled in the art. In anotherembodiment, the compositions may further comprise additional activeingredients, whose activity is useful for the particular application forwhich the compound of this invention is being administered.

The invention contemplates, in some embodiments, administration ofcompositions comprising the individual agents, administered separatelyand by similar or alternative routes, formulated as appropriately forthe route of administration. The invention contemplates, in someembodiments, administration of compositions comprising the individualagents, administered in the same formulation. The inventioncontemplates, in some embodiments, staggered administration, concurrentadministration, of administration of the various agents over a course oftime, however, their effects are synergistic in the subject.

It is to be understood that any of the above means, timings, routes, orcombinations thereof, of administration of two or more agents is to beconsidered as being encompassed by the phrase “administered incombination”, as described herein.

In one embodiment, bone turnover markers have been demonstrated as aneffective, validated tool for the clinical scientist to monitor boneactivity. In another embodiment, urinary hydroxyproline, serum alkalinephosphatase, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, and osteocalcinlevels, along with the urinary calcium-creatinine ratio are used as boneturnover markers. In another embodiment osteocalcin levels is used as abone formation marker. In another embodiment c-telopeptide is used as abone resorption marker.

In one embodiment, this invention provides for the treatment,prevention, suppression or inhibition of, or the reduction of the riskof developing a skeletal-related event (SRE), such as bone fractures,surgery of the bone, radiation of the bone, spinal cord compression, newbone metastasis, bone loss, or a combination thereof in a subject withcancer, comprising administering to the subject a compound of thisinvention and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, or any combination thereof. The invention relates, inter aliato treatment of an SRE with the compound of this invention in a subjectwith prostate cancer undergoing or having undergone androgen deprivationtherapy (ADT).

In one embodiment, the skeletal-related events treated using the methodsprovided herein and/or utilizing the compositions provided herein, arefractures, which in one embodiment, are pathological fractures,non-traumatic fractures, vertebral fracture, non-vertebral fractures,morphometric fractures, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the methods and/or compositions provided herein,are effective in treatment, prevention, suppression, inhibition orreduction of the risk of skeletal-related events such as pathologicfractures, spinal cord compression, hypercalcemia, bone-related pain, ortheir combination.

In another embodiment, the skeletal-related events sought to be treatedusing the methods provided herein and/or utilizing the compositionsprovided herein, comprise the necessity for bone surgery and/or boneradiation, which in some embodiments, is for the treatment of painresulting in one embodiment from bone damage, or nerve compression. Inanother embodiment, the skeletal-related events sought to be treatedusing the methods provided herein and/or utilizing the compositionsprovided herein, comprise spinal cord compression, or the necessity forchanges in antineoplastic therapy, including changes in hormonaltherapy, in a subject. In some embodiments, skeletal-related eventssought to be treated using the methods provided herein and/or utilizingthe compositions provided herein, comprise treating, suppressing,preventing, reducing the incidence of, or delaying progression orseverity of bone metastases, or bone loss. In one embodiment, bone lossmay comprise osteoporosis, osteopenia, or a combination thereof. In oneembodiment, skeletal-related events may comprise any combination of theembodiments listed herein.

In one embodiment, the methods provided herein and/or utilizing thecompositions provided herein, are effective in reducing metastases tothe bone, such as in terms of number of foci, the size of foci, or acombination thereof. According to this aspect of the invention and inone embodiment, provided herein is a method of preventing or inhibitingcancer metastasis to bone in a subject, comprising the step ofadministering to the subject a composition comprising toremifene,raloxifene, tamoxifen or an analogue, functional derivative, metaboliteor a combination thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.In one embodiment, such metabolites may comprise ospemifene, fispemifeneor their combination. In one embodiment, the cancer is prostate cancer.

A person skilled in the art would readily recognize that changes in theantineoplastic therapy according to the methods provided herein,utilizing the compositions provided herein may be conducted as afunction of, or adjusted or varied as a function of, inter-alia, theseverity of the underlying disease, the source of the underlyingdisease, the extent of the patients' pain and source of the patients'pain, as well as the stage of the disease. The therapeutic changes mayinclude in certain embodiments, changes in the route of administration(e.g. intracavitarily, intraartiarly, intratumorally etc.), forms of thecompositions administered (e.g. tablets, elixirs, suspensions etc.),changes in dosage and the like. Each of these changes are wellrecognized in the art and are encompassed by the embodiments providedherein.

In one embodiment, the skeletal-related events are a result of cancertherapy. In one embodiment, the skeletal-related events are a result ofhormone deprivation therapy, while in another embodiment; they are aproduct of ADT.

In one embodiment, the compounds of this invention are useful inprevention or reversal of ADT induced side effects such as reducedmuscle mass, reduced muscle strength, frailty, hypogonadism,osteoporosis, osteopenia, decreased BMD and/or decreased bone mass.

In males, while the natural decline in sex-hormones at maturity (directdecline in androgens as well as lower levels of estrogens derived fromperipheral aromatization of androgens) is associated with the frailty ofbones, this effect is more pronounced in males who have undergoneandrogen deprivation therapy.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with anantidiabetic agent. In one embodiment, the antidiabetic agent is asulfonylurea. In one embodiment, sulfonylureas include but are notlimited to tolbutamide, acetohexamide, tolazamide, chlorpropamide,glipizide, glyburide, glimepiride, or gliclazide. In one embodiment, theantidiabetic agent is a meglitinide. In one embodiment, meglitinidesinclude but are not limited to prandin or nateglinide. In oneembodiment, the antidiabetic agent is a biguanide. In one embodiment,biguanides include but are not limited to metformin. In one embodiment,the antidiabetic agent is a thiazolidinedione. In one embodiment,thiazolidinediones include but are not limited to rosiglitazone,pioglitazone, or troglitazone. In one embodiment, the antidiabetic agentis an alpha glucosidase inhibitor. In one embodiment, alpha glucosidaseinhibitors include but are not limited to miglitol or acarbose. In oneembodiment, the antidiabetic agent is PPARα/γ ligand,dipeptidylpeptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, SGLT (sodium-dependent glucosetransporter 1) inhibitor, or FBPase (fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase)inhibitor. In one embodiment, the antidiabetic agent is insulin. In oneembodiment, the insulin is rapid-acting insulin. In one embodiment, theinsulin is short-acting insulin. In one embodiment, the insulin isintermediate-acting insulin. In one embodiment, the insulin isintermediate- and short-acting insulin mixtures. In one embodiment, theinsulin is long-acting insulin. In one embodiment, the antidiabeticagents are inhibitors of fatty acid binding protein (aP2) such as thosedisclosed in U.S. Ser. No. 09/519,079 filed Mar. 6, 2000, glucagon-likepeptide-1 (GLP-1), and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP4) inhibitors such asthose disclosed in WO 0168603, which are incorporated by reference.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with anagent treating the cardiovascular system. In one embodiment, the agenttreating the cardiovascular system is a hypercholesterolemic agent suchas niacin-lovastatin, colestipol HCl, fluvastatin sodium, atorvastatincalcium, simvastatin, gemfibrozil, lovastatin, pravastatin sodium,cholestyramine, cholestyramine light, fenofibrate, colesevelam HCl, orezetimibe.

In one embodiment, the compound of this invention is administered incombination with an agent treating a metabolic disease, disorder orcondition, which in some embodiments refers to metabolic syndrome.

In some embodiments, agents treating a metabolic disease include but arenot limited to a vitamin, Coenzyme Q10, glucosidase alfa, sodiumbicarbonate, bisphosphonate, biotin, allopurinol, levodopa, diazepam,phenobarbital, haloperidol, folic acid, antioxidants, activators ofcation channels haptoglobin, or carnitine.

In some embodiments, such agents comprise, inter alia, pancreatic lipaseinhibitors, such as for example, orlistat, cetilistat, serotonin andnorepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, such as sibutramine,insulin-sensitizers such as biguanides (metformin) or PPAR agonists,dual-acting PPAR agonists (muraglitazar, tesaglitazar, naveglitazar),PPAR-delta agonists (GW-501516), DPP-IV inhibitors (vildagliptin,sitagliptin), alpha glucosidase inhibitors (acarbose), anti-diabeticcombinations (ActoPlusMet, AvandaMet, metformin/pioglitazone,metformin/rosiglitazone, Glucovance, etc.), glucagon-like peptide-1analogues (exenatide, liraglutide), amylin analogues (pramlintide),statins (atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin, pravastatin,fluvastatin, lovastatin, pitavastatin), cholesterol absorptioninhibitors (ezetimibe), nicotinic acid derivatives (immediate releaseand controlled release niacins, niaslo, etc.), antidyslipidemic fixedcombinations (simvastatin/ezetimibe, lovastatin/nicotinic acid,atorvastatin/amlodipine, atorvastatin/torcetrapib, simvastatin/nicotinicacid (ER), ACE inhibitors (ramipril, captopril, lisinopril), AT-IIreceptor antagonists (valsartan, telmisartan), cannabinoid receptorantagonists (rimonabant), cholesteryl ester transfer protein or CETPInhibitors (JTT-705, CETi-1), beta3 adrenergic agonists, PPARα ligands,or combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with anagent treating the liver. In one embodiment, the agent treating theliver is cortisone, cortisol or corticosterone. In some embodiments, theagent treating the liver is colchicine, methotrexate, ursodeoxycholicacid, or penicillamine.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with astatin. In some embodiment, statins include but are not limited toatorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin, orrosuvastatin.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with abile acid sequestrant. In some embodiment, bile acid sequestrantsinclude but are not limited to cholestyramine, colestipol, orcolesevelam.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with acholesterol absorption inhibitor. In some embodiment, cholesterolabsorption inhibitors include but are not limited to ezetimibe.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with anicotinic acid agent. In some embodiments, nicotinic acid agents includebut are not limited to niacin, niacor, or slo-niacin.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with afibrate. In some embodiments, fibrates include but are not limited togemfibrozil, or fenofibrate.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered in combination with anagent treating the endocrine system. In one embodiment, the agenttreating the endocrine system is a SARM compound. In some embodiments,SARMs include but are not limited to RU-58642, RU-56279, WS9761 A and B,RU-59063, RU-58841, bexlosteride, LG-2293, L-245976, LG-121071,LG-121091, LG-121104, LGD-2226, LGD-2941, LGD-3303, YM-92088, YM-175735,LGD-1331, BMS-357597, BMS-391197, S-40503, BMS-482404, EM-4283, EM-4977,BMS-564929, BMS-391197, BMS-434588, BMS-487745, BMS-501949, SA-766,YM-92088, YM-580, LG-123303, LG-123129, PMCol, YM-175735, BMS-591305,BMS-591309, BMS-665139, BMS-665539, CE-590, 116BG33, 154BG31, arcarine,or ACP-105.

In one embodiment, the agent treating the endocrine system includes butis not limited to tamoxifen, 4-hydroxytamoxifen, idoxifene, toremifene,ospemifene, droloxifene, raloxifene, arzoxifene, bazedoxifene, PPT(1,3,5-tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-propyl-1H-pyrazole), DPN, lasofoxifene,pipendoxifene, EM-800, EM-652, nafoxidine, zindoxifene, tesmilifene,miproxifene phosphate, RU 58,688, EM 139, ICI 164,384, ICI 182,780,clomiphene, MER-25, diethylstilbestrol, coumestrol, genistein, GW5638,LY353581, zuclomiphene, enclomiphene, delmadinone acetate, DPPE,(N,N-diethyl-2-{4-(phenylmethyl)-phenoxy}ethanamine), TSE-424, WAY-070,WAY-292, WAY-818, cyclocommunol, prinaberel, ERB-041, WAY-397, WAY-244,ERB-196, WAY-169122, MF-101, ERb-002, ERB-037, ERB-017, BE-1060, BE-380,BE-381, WAY-358, [18F]FEDNP, LSN-500307, AA-102, Ban zhi lian, CT-101,CT-102, or VG-101.

In one embodiment, the agent treating the endocrine system is agonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist or antagonist. In someembodiments, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists or antagonistsinclude but are not limited to leuprolide, goserelin, triptorelin,alfaprostol, histrelin, detirelix, ganirelix, antide iturelix,cetrorelix, ramorelix, ganirelix, antarelix, teverelix, abarelix,ozarelix, sufugolix, prazarelix, degarelix, NBI-56418, TAK-810, oracyline.

In one embodiment, the agent treating the endocrine system is asteroidal or nonsteroidal glucocorticoid receptor ligand. In someembodiments, nonsteroidal glucocorticoid receptor ligands include butare not limited to ZK-216348, ZK-243149, ZK-243185, LGD-5552,mifepristone, RPR-106541, ORG-34517, GW-215864X, Sesquicillin,CP-472555, CP-394531, A-222977, AL-438, A-216054, A-276575, CP-394531,CP-409069, or UGR-07.

In one embodiment, the agent treating the endocrine system is asteroidal or non-steroidal progesterone receptor ligand. In oneembodiment, the agent treating the endocrine system is a steroidal ornonsteroidal androgen receptor antagonist. In some embodiments,steroidal or nonsteroidal androgen receptor antagonists include but arenot limited to flutamide, hydroxyflutamide, bicalutamide, nilutamide, orhydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor.

In one embodiment, the agent treating the endocrine system is aperoxisome proliferator-activated receptor ligand. In some embodiments,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ligands include but are notlimited to bezafibrate, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, darglitazone,pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, is aglitazone, rivoglitazone,netoglitazone, naveglitazar, farglitazar, tesaglitazar, ragaglitazar,oxeglitazar, or PN-2034.

In some embodiments, any of the compositions of this invention willcomprise a compound of this invention, in any form or embodiment asdescribed herein. In some embodiments, any of the compositions of thisinvention will comprise a compound of formula 12u, 14m, 12z or 12ylisted in Table 1 of this invention, in any form or embodiment asdescribed herein. In some embodiments, any of the compositions of thisinvention will consist of a compound of this invention, in any form orembodiment as described herein. In some embodiments, any of thecompositions of this invention will consist of a compound of formula12u, 14m, 12z or 12y listed in Table 1 of this invention, in any form orembodiment as described herein. In some embodiments, of the compositionsof this invention will consist essentially of a compound of thisinvention, in any form or embodiment as described herein. In someembodiments, of the compositions of this invention will consistessentially of a compound of formula 12u, 14m, 12z or 12y listed inTable 1 of this invention, in any form or embodiment as describedherein.

In some embodiments, the term “comprise” refers to the inclusion of theindicated active agent, such as the compound of this invention, as wellas inclusion of other active agents, and pharmaceutically acceptablecarriers, excipients, emollients, stabilizers, etc., as are known in thepharmaceutical industry.

In some embodiments, the term “consisting essentially of” refers to acomposition, whose only active ingredient is the indicated activeingredient, however, other compounds may be included which are forstabilizing, preserving, etc. the formulation, but are not involveddirectly in the therapeutic effect of the indicated active ingredient.In some embodiments, the term “consisting essentially of” may refer tocomponents which facilitate the release of the active ingredient. Insome embodiments, the term “consisting” refers to a composition, whichcontains the active ingredient and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrieror excipient.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides combined preparations.In one embodiment, the term “a combined preparation” defines especiallya “kit of parts” in the sense that the combination partners as definedabove can be dosed independently or by use of different fixedcombinations with distinguished amounts of the combination partnersi.e., simultaneously, concurrently, separately or sequentially. In someembodiments, the parts of the kit of parts can then, e.g., beadministered simultaneously or chronologically staggered, that is atdifferent time points and with equal or different time intervals for anypart of the kit of parts. The ratio of the total amounts of thecombination partners, in some embodiments, can be administered in thecombined preparation. In one embodiment, the combined preparation can bevaried, e.g., in order to cope with the needs of a patient subpopulationto be treated or the needs of the single patient which different needscan be due to a particular disease, severity of a disease, age, sex, orbody weight as can be readily made by a person skilled in the art.

Biological Activity of NRBA Compounds

It is to be understood that this invention is directed to compositionsand combined therapies as described herein, for any disease, disorder orcondition, as appropriate, as will be appreciated by one skilled in theart. Certain applications of such compositions and combined therapieshave been described hereinabove, for specific diseases, disorders andconditions, representing embodiments of this invention, and methods oftreating such diseases, disorders and conditions in a subject byadministering a compound as herein described, or compounds 12u, 14m,12z, or 12y listed in Table 1, alone or as part of the combined therapyor using the compositions of this invention represent additionalembodiments of this invention.

In one embodiment, this invention provides: a) a method of treating acondition associated with high fat diet consumption; b) a method ofpreventing a condition associated with high fat diet consumption; c) amethod of treating a condition associated with post-menopausal obesity;d) a method of preventing a condition associated with post-menopausalobesity; e) a method of increasing energy expenditure in a subject; f) amethod of increasing lean body mass; g) a method of treating a metabolicdisorder; h) a method of increasing muscle weight; comprising the stepof administering to said subject a compound of this invention and/or ananalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment, a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, “high fat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includesmore than 10% fat. In another embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refers toa diet that includes more than 20% fat. In another embodiment “high fatdiet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includes between 10-20% fat. Inanother embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includesmore than 30% fat. In another embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refers toa diet that includes between 10-30% fat. In another embodiment “high fatdiet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includes between 10-15% fat. Inanother embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includesbetween 20-40% fat. In another embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refersto a diet that includes more than 30% fat. In another embodiment “highfat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includes between 30-60% fat. Inanother embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includesbetween 30-40% fat. In another embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refersto a diet that includes between 40-50% fat. In another embodiment “highfat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includes between 50-60% fat. Inanother embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refers to a diet that includesbetween 60-70% fat. In another embodiment “high fat diet” (HFD) refersto a diet that includes protein (23.5%), carbohydrates (27.3%) and fat(34.3%), with a digestible energy of 5.1 Kcal/g.

In one embodiment, “normal diet” (N.D) refers to a diet that includesless than 10% fat. In one embodiment, “normal diet” (N.D) refers to adiet that includes less than 30% fat. In another embodiment, “normaldiet” (N.D) refers to a diet that includes protein (16.7%),carbohydrates (56%) and fat (4.2%), with a digestible energy of 3.3Kcal/g. In another embodiment, “normal diet” refers to a diet thatincludes 10-30% fat. In another embodiment, “normal diet” refers to adiet that includes 30-50% fat. In another embodiment, “normal diet”refers to a diet that includes 40-50% fat. In another embodiment,“normal diet” is a “high fat diet”.

In one embodiment, “obesity” refers to a medical condition in whichexcess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have anadverse effect on health, leading to increased health problems. Inanother embodiment, “obesity” refers to a weight increase, which is atleast 5% of the total body weight.

“Postmenopausal obesity” refers to body weight gain of a subject aftermenopause that is not induced by a diet. Postmenopausal obesity emanatesdue to reduced circulating estrogens and lost repression on adiposetissue proliferation and adipokine synthesis.

“Visceral obesity” refers to a form of obesity due to excessivedeposition of fat in the abdominal viscera and omentum, rather thansubcutaneously, associated with dyslipidemia (increased plasmatriglyceride, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol).

“Visceral obesity at andropause” refers to a body weight gain thataccompanies androgen deficiency in aging men.

In one embodiment, the methods of this invention are useful for asubject, which is a human. In another embodiment, the subject is amammal. In another embodiment the subject is an animal. In anotherembodiment the subject is an invertebrate. In another embodiment thesubject is a vertebrate.

In one embodiment, the subject is male. In another embodiment, thesubject is female. In some embodiments, while the methods as describedherein may be useful for treating either males or females, females mayrespond more advantageously to administration of certain compounds, forcertain methods, as described and exemplified herein.

In some embodiments, while the methods as described herein may be usefulfor treating either males or females, males may respond moreadvantageously to administration of certain compounds, for certainmethods, as described herein.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods comprisingadministering a therapeutically effective amount of an estrogen receptorligand compound as described herein or its prodrug, analog, isomer,metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or anycombination thereof, or a composition comprising the same, to a subjectin need thereof, so as to achieve a desired effect.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods of treatingmetabolic diseases comprising administering estrogen receptor ligandcompounds of the is invention.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of condition associated with high fat diet consumption. Inanother embodiment, the present invention provides methods forpreventing a condition associated with high fat diet consumption. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with high fat dietconsumption is body weight gain. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with high fat diet consumption is obesity. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with high fat diet consumption isfat mass formation. In another embodiment the condition associated withhigh fat diet consumption is bone mineral content reduction. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with high fat diet consumption iswhite adipose tissue weight gain. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with high fat diet consumption is increased cholesterollevels. In another embodiment the condition associated with high fatdiet consumption is increased leptin levels. In another embodiment thecondition associated with high fat diet consumption is insulinresistance. In another embodiment the condition associated with high fatdiet consumption is type II diabetes. In another embodiment thecondition associated with high fat diet consumption is increased bloodglucose levels. In another embodiment the condition associated with highfat diet consumption is inflammatory diseases. In another embodiment thecondition associated with high fat diet consumption is cardiovasculardiseases. In another embodiment the condition associated with high fatdiet consumption is fatty liver condition (accumulation of fat in theliver). In another embodiment the condition associated with high fatdiet consumption is decreased uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) levels. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with high fat dietconsumption is increased lipogenesis.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of condition associated with post-menopausal obesity. Inanother embodiment, the present invention provides methods forpreventing a condition associated with post-menopausal obesity. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal obesityis body weight gain. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is fat mass formation. In another embodiment thecondition associated with post-menopausal obesity is bone mineralcontent reduction. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is white adipose tissue weight gain. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal obesity isincreased cholesterol levels. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with post-menopausal obesity is increased leptin levels. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal obesityis insulin resistance. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith post-menopausal obesity is type II diabetes. In another embodimentthe condition associated with post-menopausal obesity is increased bloodglucose levels. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is inflammatory diseases. In another embodimentthe condition associated with post-menopausal obesity is cardiovasculardiseases. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is fatty liver condition (accumulation of fat inthe liver). In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is decreased uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1)levels. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is increased lipogenesis. In another embodimentthe condition associated with post-menopausal obesity is fatty liverdisease. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal obesity is NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis).

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of obesity. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing obesity. In one embodiment, the obesityis post-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the obesity ischildhood obesity. In another embodiment, the obesity is visceralobesity. In another embodiment, the obesity is visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the obesity is diet induced obesity.In another embodiment the obesity is induced by prolonged rest. Inanother embodiment the obesity is class I obesity. In another embodimentthe obesity is class II obesity. In another embodiment the obesity isclass III obesity. In another embodiment the methods compriseadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of promoting,increasing or facilitating weight loss in a subject, comprising the stepof administering to the subject a compound as herein described and/orits analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,crystal, or any combination thereof, in an amount effective to promote,increase or facilitate weight loss in the subject. In anotherembodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of decreasing,suppressing, inhibiting or reducing appetite of a subject, comprisingthe step of administering to the subject a compound as herein describedand/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, crystal, or any combination thereof, in an amount effectiveto decrease, suppress, inhibit or reduce the appetite of the subject. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of reducingbody weight gain in a subject. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of reducing body weight gain in a subject, withoutaffecting total caloric intake. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of reducing body weight gain in a subject, withoutreducing lean mass or body water content. In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to methods of preventing body weight gain in asubject. In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods ofpreventing body weight gain in a subject, without affecting totalcaloric intake. In another embodiment, this invention relates to methodsof preventing body weight gain in a subject, without reducing lean massor body water content. In one embodiment the body weight gain is due tohigh fat diet consumption. In another embodiment the body weight gain isrelated to post-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the bodyweight gain is related to visceral obesity at andropause. In anotherembodiment the body weight gain is related to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventing bodyweight increase of between 10%-100% of the body weight. In anotherembodiment, the methods of this invention prevent body weight increaseof between 10-25% of the body weight. In another embodiment, the methodsof this invention prevent body weight increase of between 25-50% of thebody weight. In another embodiment, the methods of this inventionprevent body weight increase of between 30-70% of the body weight. Inanother embodiment, the methods of this invention prevent body weightincrease of between 50-100% of the body weight. In another embodimentthe methods comprise administering a compound of this invention. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of alteringthe body composition of a subject, comprising the step of administeringto the subject a compound as herein described and/or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, crystal,or any combination thereof, in an amount effective to alter the bodycomposition of the subject. In one embodiment, altering the bodycomposition comprises altering the lean body mass, the fat free bodymass of the subject, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides methods forreducing a fat mass in a subject. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing fat mass formation in asubject. In one embodiment the fat mass formation is related to high fatdiet consumption. In another embodiment, the fat mass formation isrelated to post-menopausal obesity. In one embodiment the fat massformation is related to visceral obesity. In one embodiment the fat massformation is related to visceral obesity at andropause. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 10%-100% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 25%-35% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 35%-45% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 45%-55% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 55%-65% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 65%-75% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment this invention relates to methods of preventingincrease in body fat mass of between 75%-100% of the body fat mass. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for increasinglean mass in a subject. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing decrease in lean mass in a subject. Inone embodiment the decrease in lean mass is related to high fat dietconsumption. In another embodiment the decrease in lean mass is relatedto post-menopausal obesity.

In another embodiment the decrease in lean mass is related to visceralobesity. In another embodiment the decrease in lean mass is related tovisceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of increasingmuscle weight. In another embodiment, this invention relates to methodsof preventing a decrease in muscle weight. In one embodiment, thedecrease is related to high fat diet consumption. In another embodiment,the decrease is related to post-menopausal obesity. In anotherembodiment, the decrease is related to visceral obesity. In anotherembodiment, the decrease is related to visceral obesity at andropause.In one embodiment the muscle weight is gastrocnemius muscle weight. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of alteringlean body mass or fat free body mass of a subject, comprising the stepof administering to the subject a compound as herein described and/orits analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,crystal, or any combination thereof, in an amount effective to alter thelean body mass or fat free body mass of the subject. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of convertingfat to lean muscle in a subject, comprising the step of administering tothe subject a compound as herein described and/or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, crystal,or any combination thereof, in an amount effective to convert fat tolean muscle in the subject. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) affects 6 million people in US.About 10% (approximately 600,000) of these patients are expected toprogress to fibrosis and cirrhosis. The patients progress eventually toliver cancer. NASH occurs due to excessive fat accumulation in the liverand hence classified as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NASHis characterized by fat accumulation, inflammation, fibrosis and evencirrhosis and cancer of the liver in severe conditions. Currently NASHis an unmet medical need with liver transplantation being the onlyoption for these patients. Several clinical trials in the recent pasthave not provided any benefit to these patients. Obesity is the primaryetiology for NASH. The prevalence of obesity has increased exponentiallyin the last few years, concordantly increasing the incidence of NASH.Estimated therapeutic market for NASH is $1.9 billion and is expected toincrease, at more than 8% annually, to $3.1 billion by 2016.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in a subject,comprising the step of administering to the subject a compound as hereindescribed and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, crystal, or any combination thereof, in anamount effective to reduce fat in the liver of the subject. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention provides methods for increasingbone mineral content (BMC) in a subject. In another embodiment, thepresent invention provides methods for preventing reduction in BMC in asubject. In one embodiment the reduction in BMC is related to high fatdiet. In another embodiment the reduction in BMC is related topost-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the reduction in BMC isrelated to visceral obesity. In another embodiment the reduction in BMCis related to visceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of osteoporosis. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing osteoporosis. In one embodiment, theosteoporosis is related to a post-menopausal obesity. In anotherembodiment the osteoporosis is related to a high fat diet consumption.In another embodiment the osteoporosis is related to visceral obesity.In another embodiment the osteoporosis is related to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of reducingwhite adipose tissue (WAT) weight in a subject. In another embodiment,this invention relates to methods of preventing an increase in whiteadipose tissue weight in a subject. In one embodiment, the increase inwhite adipose tissue weight is related to high fat diet. In anotherembodiment, the increase in white adipose tissue weight is related topost-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment, the increase in whiteadipose tissue weight is related to visceral obesity. In anotherembodiment, the increase in white adipose tissue weight is related tovisceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

Cholesterol, triacylglycerol and other lipids are transported in bodyfluids by lipoproteins which may be classified according to theirdensity, for example, the very low density lipoproteins (VLDL),intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL)and high density lipoproteins (HDL).

It has been shown that high levels of LDL-Cholesterol in the bloodcorrelate with atherosclerosis which is a progressive diseasecharacterized in part by sedimentation of lipids in inner walls ofarteries, particularly of coronary arteries. It has also been shown thata high blood level of LDL-Cholesterol correlates with coronary heartdisease. Also, a negative correlation exists between blood levels of HDLcholesterol and coronary heart disease.

The level of total cholesterol in blood, which is the sum ofHDL-Cholesterol, LDL-Cholesterol, VLDL-Cholesterol andchylomicron-Cholesterol, is not necessarily predictive of the risk ofcoronary heart disease and atherosclerosis.

The correlation between atherosclerosis and LDL cholesterol levels,however, is much higher than a similar correlation betweenatherosclerosis and total serum cholesterol levels.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of reducingcholesterol levels in a subject. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of lowering LDL-cholesterol levels in a subject. Inanother embodiment, this invention relates to methods of lowering totalcholesterol levels in a subject. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of preventing an increase in cholesterol levels in asubject. In one embodiment the increase in cholesterol levels is relatedto high fat diet. In another embodiment the increase in cholesterollevels is related to post-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment theincrease in cholesterol levels is related to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the increase in cholesterol levels is related tovisceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, compounds of this invention are co-administeredwith HDL-elevating agents. In another embodiment, a compound of thisinvention is co-administered with an HDL-elevating agent. In anotherembodiment, HDL-elevating agents include niacin. In another embodimentthe HDL-elevating agents include fibrates including gemfibrozil (Lopid),thiourea based gemfibrozil analogues, and fenofibrate (TriCor). Inanother embodiment, HDL-elevating agents include statins. In anotherembodiment, HDL-elevating agents include1-hydroxyalkyl-3-phenylthiourea, and analogs thereof.

In one embodiment atherosclerosis refers to a slow, complex disease thatmay begin with damage to the innermost layer of the artery. In anotherembodiment the causes of damage to the arterial wall may include a)elevated levels of cholesterol and in the blood; b) high blood pressure;c) tobacco smoke d) diabetes. In another embodiment, the condition istreatable in a smoker, despite the fact that tobacco smoke may greatlyworsen atherosclerosis and speed its growth in the coronary arteries,the aorta and arteries in the legs. Similarly, in another embodiment,the methods of this invention may be useful in treating subjects with afamily history of premature cardiovascular disease who have an increasedrisk of atherosclerosis.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of atherosclerosis. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing atherosclerosis. In oneembodiment, the atherosclerosis is related to a post-menopausal obesity.In another embodiment the atherosclerosis is related to high fat dietconsumption. In another embodiment the atherosclerosis is related tovisceral obesity. In another embodiment the atherosclerosis is relatedto visceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treatingatherosclerosis and its associated diseases, such as, for example,cardiovascular disorders, cerebrovascular disorders, peripheral vasculardisorders, or intestinal vascular disorders in a subject, the methodcomprising the step of administering to the subject compound of thisinvention or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, N-oxide, orany combination thereof, or a composition comprising the same. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1. Themethod may further comprise co-administration, subsequent or prioradministration with an agent or agents, which are known to be useful intreating cardiovascular disorders, cerebrovascular disorders, peripheralvascular disorders, intestinal vascular disorders or combinationthereof.

Hypercholesterolemia is a condition in which high levels of cholesterolare present in the blood of a subject. It is not a disease but ametabolic derangement that can be secondary to many diseases and cancontribute to many forms of disease, most notably cardiovasculardisease. Elevated cholesterol in the blood is caused by abnormalities inthe levels of lipoproteins, the particles that carry cholesterol in thebloodstream. This may be related to diet, genetic factors (such as LDLreceptor mutations in familial hypercholesterolemia) and the presence ofother diseases such as diabetes and an underactive thyroid.

In one embodiment, this invention relates to methods of alleviatinghypercholesterolemia. In another embodiment, this invention relates tomethods of preventing hypercholesterolemia. In another embodiment thehypercholesterolemia is related to high fat diet consumption. In anotherembodiment the hypercholesterolemia is related to post-menopausalobesity. In another embodiment hypercholesterolemia is related tovisceral obesity. In another embodiment hypercholesterolemia is relatedto visceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of reducingleptin levels in a subject. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing an increase in leptin levels in asubject. In one embodiment the increase in leptin levels is related tohigh fat diet consumption. In another embodiment the increase in leptinlevels is related to post-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment theincrease in leptin levels is related to visceral obesity. In anotherembodiment the increase in leptin levels is related to visceral obesityat andropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administeringa compound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of leptin resistance. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing leptin resistance. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the subject for whom treatment is sought via themethods of this invention is one with insulin resistance. Insulinresistance is a condition in which normal amounts of insulin areinadequate to produce a normal insulin response from fat, muscle andliver cells. Insulin resistance in fat cells results in hydrolysis ofstored triglycerides, which elevates free fatty acids in the bloodplasma. Insulin resistance in muscle reduces glucose uptake whereasinsulin resistance in liver reduces glucose storage, with both effectsserving to elevate blood glucose. High plasma levels of insulin andglucose due to insulin resistance often leads to the metabolic syndromeand type II diabetes.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of insulin resistance. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing insulin resistance. In oneembodiment, the insulin resistance is related to post-menopausalobesity. In another embodiment, the insulin resistance related tovisceral obesity. In another embodiment, the insulin resistance relatedto visceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the insulinresistance is related to a high fat diet consumption. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for improvinginsulin sensitivity in a subject. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,halting the progression of, or treating symptoms of, delaying the onsetof, reducing the incidence of, or reducing the severity of diabetes. Inanother embodiment, the present invention provides methods forpreventing diabetes. In one embodiment, the diabetes is Type I diabetes.In another embodiment, the diabetes is Type II diabetes. In a furtherembodiment, the diabetes is diabetes mellitus. In one embodiment, thediabetes is related to post-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment,the diabetes is related to visceral obesity. In another embodiment, thediabetes is related to visceral obesity at andropause. In anotherembodiment the diabetes is induced by a high fat diet. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating diabeticnephropathy comprising administering a compound of this invention. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

Diabetic nephropathy is a complication of diabetes that evolves early,typically before clinical diagnosis of diabetes is made. The earliestclinical evidence of nephropathy is the appearance of low but abnormallevels (>30 mg/day or 20 ng/min) of albumin in the urine(microalbuminuria), followed by albuminuria (>300 mg/24 h or 200 ng/min)that develops over a period of 10-15 years. In patients with type 1diabetes, diabetic hypertension typically becomes manifest early on, bythe time that patients develop microalbuminuria. Once overt nephropathyoccurs, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) falls over a course oftimes, which may be several years, resulting in End Stage Renal Disease(ESRD) in diabetic individuals.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating diabeticneuropathy comprising administering a compound of this invention. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

Diabetic neuropathy is a family of nerve disorders caused by diabetes.Diabetic neuropathies cause numbness and sometimes pain and weakness inthe hands, arms, feet, and legs. Neurologic problems in diabetes mayoccur in every organ system, including the digestive tract, heart, andgenitalia. Diabetic neuropathies are classified as peripheral,autonomic, proximal, and focal. Peripheral neuropathy causes pain orloss of feeling in the toes, feet, legs, hands, and arms. Autonomicneuropathy causes changes in digestion, bowel and bladder function,sexual response, and perspiration and can also affect the nerves thatserve the heart and control blood pressure. Proximal neuropathy causespain in the thighs, hips, or buttocks and leads to weakness in the legs.Focal neuropathy results in the sudden weakness of one nerve, or a groupof nerves, causing muscle weakness or pain. Any nerve in the body may beaffected.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to treating co-morbiditiesrelated to diabetes. These conditions include, for example, hypertension(HTN), cerebrovascular disease, atherosclerotic coronary artery disease,macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy (eye disease) and blindness,cataracts—systemic inflammation (characterized by elevation ofinflammatory markers such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate orC-reactive protein), birth defects, pregnancy related diabetes,pre-eclampsia and hypertension in pregnancy, kidney disease (renalinsufficiency, renal failure etc.), nerve disease (diabetic neuropathy),superficial and systemic fungal infections, congestive heart failure,gout/hyperuricemia, obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia,fatty liver disease (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH), anddiabetes-related skin diseases such as Necrobiosis LipoidicaDiabeticorum (NLD), Blisters of diabetes (Bullosis Diabeticorum),Eruptive Xanthomatosis, Digital Sclerosis, Disseminated GranulomaAnnulare and Acanthosis Nigricans.

In one embodiment, the subject for whom treatment is sought via themethods of this invention is one with hyperinsulinemia. Hyperinsulinemiais a sign of an underlying problem that is causing the pancreas tosecrete excessive amounts of insulin. The most common cause ofhyperinsulinemia is insulin resistance, a condition in which your bodyis resistant to the effects of insulin and the pancreas tries tocompensate by making more insulin. Hyperinsulinemia is associated withtype II diabetes

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of alleviatinghyperinsulinemia. In another embodiment, this invention relates tomethods of preventing hyperinsulinemia. In one embodiment thehyperinsulinemia is related to high fat diet consumption. In anotherembodiment the hyperinsulinemia is related to post-menopausal obesity.In another embodiment hyperinsulinemia is related to visceral obesity.In another embodiment hyperinsulinemia is related to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of reducingglucose levels in a subject. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of preventing an increase in the glucose levels in asubject. In one embodiment the increase in glucose levels is related tohigh fat diet consumption. In another embodiment the increase in glucoselevels is related to post-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment theincrease in glucose levels is related to visceral obesity. In anotherembodiment the increase in glucose levels is related to visceral obesityat andropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administeringa compound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hypertriglyceridemia. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing hypertriglyceridemia. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In another embodiment,the present invention provides methods for preventing non-alcoholicfatty liver disease. In another embodiment the methods compriseadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment, thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. In another embodiment, thepresent invention provides methods for preventing nonalcoholicsteatohepatitis. In another embodiment the methods compriseadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment, thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

Inflammation is a common and potentially debilitating condition thatoccurs when the white blood cells and endogenous chemicals that canprotect us from infection and foreign substances such as bacteria andviruses act on tissue surrounding a wound or infection. In somediseases, however, the body's defense system (immune system) triggers aninflammatory response when there are no foreign substances to fight off.In these diseases, called autoimmune diseases, the body's normallyprotective immune system causes damage to its own tissues. The bodyresponds as if normal tissues are infected or somehow abnormal. Some,but not all types of arthritis are the result of misdirectedinflammation. Arthritis is a general term that describes inflammation injoints and affects more than 2-4% of the world's population. There aremany medications available to decrease swelling and inflammation andhopefully prevent or minimize the progression of the inflammatorydisease. The medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs—such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen), corticosteroids (suchas prednisone), anti-malarial medications (such as hydroxychloroquine),and other medications including gold, methotrexate, sulfasalazine,penicillamine, cyclophosphamide and cyclosporine.

The role of estrogen receptor and its ligands as therapy forinflammation has been under consideration. The effects are regarded tobe mediated by the isoform ER-β. Treatment of rats with estradiol orSERMs such as raloxifene and tamoxifen has been shown to reduce theincidence of lipo-polysachamide induced inflammatory responses. One ofthe pathways through which inflammatory responses are mediated isthrough the activation of NFκB pathway. Nuclear receptor ligands inhibitthe NFκB activity through protein-protein interaction. Recently it wasshown that SERMs inhibit the inflammatory responses by inhibiting theNFκB function without having estrogenic effects on other reproductivetissues.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting reducing the incidence of inflammation in asubject. In one embodiment, the inflammation is related to increasedlevels of macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β). In one embodimentthe inflammation is related to high fat diet consumption. In anotherembodiment the inflammation is related to post-menopausal obesity. Inanother embodiment the inflammation is related to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the inflammation is related to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting reducing the incidence of increased macrophageinflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β) levels in a subject. In anotherembodiment, this invention relates to methods of preventing increasedmacrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β) levels in a subject. In oneembodiment the increase is related to high fat diet consumption. Inanother embodiment the increase is related to post-menopausal obesity.In another embodiment the increase is related to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the increase is related to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the compound as described herein is useful intreating inflammation and related disorders such as: a) prevention,treatment, or reversal of arthritis; b) prevention, treatment, orreversal of an arthritic condition such as Behcet's disease (autoimmunevasculitis), bursitis, calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal (CPPD),deposition disease (or pseudogout), carpal tunnel syndrome, connectivetissue disorders, Crohn's diseases, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS),fibromyalgia, gout, infectious arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), juvenile arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Lyme'sdisease, Marfan syndrome, myositis, osteoarthritis, polyarteritisnodosa, polymyalgia rheumatica, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis,Raynaud's phenomenon, reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, Reiter'ssyndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, Sjögrens' syndrome,tendonitis or ulcerative colitis; c) preventing, treatment, or reversingan autoimmune disease; or d) chronic kidney disease (CKD).

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, inhibiting reducing the incidence of inflammatory diseases,disorders or conditions in a subject, comprising administering apharmaceutical composition comprising administering a compound offormula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or anycombination thereof, thereby treating, preventing, inhibiting reducingthe incidence of inflammatory conditions in a subject. In someembodiments ER-β agonists are useful in treating, preventing, inhibitingreducing the incidence of inflammatory diseases, disorders or conditionsin a subject. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12b, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12f, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12h, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12p, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12s, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 14m, listed inTable 1, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, ER-β agonists of this invention inhibitstroma-epithelial proliferation (FIG. 23, Example 34) which can affectthe development of anatomic obstruction, which can reduce inflammationand thereby, treat inflammation. In one embodiment, ER-β agonists ofthis invention relax smooth muscle which can lower urine tract symptoms,affect the development of BPH, which can reduce inflammation andthereby, treat inflammation.

In some embodiments, the inflammatory diseases disorders or conditionsmay comprise acute inflammation, arthropathies (in general), rheumatoidarthritis, systemic lupus erythema, asthma, acute inflammation, chronicinflammation, joint damage, joint swelling, joint erosion, sepsis, orany combination thereof.

Joint inflammation is one of the most common causes of pain, lameness,and loss of physical activity, not only in humans but in animals,particularly horses. This debilitating condition is marked by edema,redness, heat and pain. If left untreated, joint inflammation also canlead to destruction of the joint synovium and the articular cartilageproducing a permanent debilitating condition. The edema, redness, andpain that occur during inflammation are the result of physiologicalchanges in the joint. For example, the permeability of the synovialmembrane increases during inflammation allowing synovial fluid to leakinto the tissues of the joint. Alterations in blood flow and pressure inthe vascular system of the joint also occur during inflammation. Inaddition, the metabolic activity of the cells of the joint increasesduring inflammation.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, inhibiting reducing the incidence of joint inflammation in asubject, comprising administering a pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a NRBA of formula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug, analog, isomer,metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or anycombination thereof, thereby treating, preventing, inhibiting reducingthe incidence of joint inflammation in a subject. In another embodimentthe compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment theNRBA is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBAis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBA iscompound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBA iscompound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, liver damage due to fat deposits refer to thebuild-up of fat in the liver cells forming a fatty liver which may beassociated with or may lead to inflammation of the liver. This can causescarring and hardening of the liver. When scarring becomes extensive, itis called cirrhosis.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of inhibitingfat accumulation in the liver of a subject. In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to methods of reducing the amount of fat in the liverof a subject. In one embodiment, the present invention provides methodsfor treating, delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, orreducing the severity of fatty liver condition. In another embodiment,the present invention provides methods for preventing fatty livercondition. In one embodiment, the fatty liver condition is related to apost-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the fatty liver conditionis related to visceral obesity. In another embodiment the fatty livercondition is related to visceral obesity at andropause. In anotherembodiment the fatty liver condition is related to high fat dietconsumption. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, “fatty liver condition” refers to a condition inwhich fat is accumulated in the liver. In another embodiment the fataccumulates in the liver as obesity. In another embodiment fatty liveris also associated with diabetes mellitus, high blood triglycerides, andthe heavy use of alcohol. In another embodiment fatty Liver may occurwith certain illnesses such as tuberculosis and malnutrition, intestinalbypass surgery for obesity, excess vitamin A in the body, or the use ofcertain drugs such as valproic acid (trade names: Depakene/Depakote) andcorticosteroids (cortisone, prednisone). Sometimes fatty liver occurs asa complication of pregnancy.

In one embodiment, this invention relates to methods of altering theanti-oxidant pathways in a subject. In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to methods of reducing glutathione peroxidase (GPx-3)levels in a subject. In another embodiment, this invention relates tomethods of preventing an increase in glutathione peroxidase (GPx-3)levels in a subject. In one embodiment the increase is related to highfat diet consumption. In another embodiment the increase is related topost-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the increase is relatedto visceral obesity. In another embodiment the increase is related tovisceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of increasing the levels of DNA damage inducibletranscript III (Ddit3) in a subject. In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to methods of preventing a decrease in the levels ofDNA damage inducible transcript III (Ddit3) in a subject. In oneembodiment the decrease is related to high fat diet consumption. Inanother embodiment the decrease is related to post-menopausal obesity.In another embodiment the decrease is related to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the decrease is related to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, inhibiting reducing the incidence of oxidativedamage-related diseases, disorders or conditions in a subject,comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising acompound of formula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug, analog, isomer,metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or anycombination thereof, thereby treating, preventing, inhibiting reducingthe incidence of oxidative damage-related diseases in a subject. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In some embodiments, the oxidative damage-related diseases, disorders orconditions may comprise cancers; skin disorders; neurodegenerativediseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington'sdisease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; vasculardiseases such as stroke and various age-related dementias, andatherosclerosis and chronic heart failure; or age-related maculardegeneration.

Oxidative damage can comprise damage to cells and tissue, caused byoxidation of various cellular products, which through the production ofperoxides and free radicals damage components of the cell and tissue,for example, damaging cell integrity, cell membranes, DNA, etc.

In one embodiment, this invention relates to methods of increasinguncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) levels in a subject. In another embodiment,this invention relates to methods of preventing a decrease in uncouplingprotein-1 (UCP-1) levels in a subject. In one embodiment, the decreaseis related to high fat diet consumption. In another embodiment thedecrease is related to post-menopausal obesity. In another embodimentthe decrease is related to visceral obesity. In another embodiment thedecrease is related to visceral obesity at andropause. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of increasingenergy expenditure in a subject. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to methods of preventing a decrease in energy expenditure in asubject. In one embodiment the decrease in energy expenditure is relatedto high fat diet consumption. In another embodiment the decrease inenergy expenditure is related to post-menopausal obesity. In anotherembodiment the decrease in energy expenditure is related to visceralobesity. In another embodiment the decrease in energy expenditure isrelated to visceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of reducing,inhibiting or preventing lipogenesis in a subject. In one embodiment thelipogenesis is related to decreased levels of genes promotinglipogenesis in a subject. These genes include, but are not limited to:lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FASN), regulatory elementbinding protein-1 (SREBP-1), phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) anddehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr24). In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to increasing the levels of lipoprotein lipase (LPL)in a subject. In another embodiment, this invention relates toincreasing the levels of fatty acid synthase (FASN) in a subject. Inanother embodiment, this invention relates to increasing the levels ofregulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) in a subject. In anotherembodiment, this invention relates to increasing the levels ofphospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) in a subject. In anotherembodiment, this invention relates to increasing the levels ofdehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr24) in a subject. In anotherembodiment, this invention relates to preventing a decrease in thelevels of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in a subject. In another embodiment,this invention relates to preventing a decrease in the levels of fattyacid synthase (FASN) in a subject. In another embodiment, this inventionrelates to preventing a decrease in the levels of regulatory elementbinding protein-1 (SREBP-1) in a subject. In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to preventing a decrease in the levels of phospholipidtransfer protein (PLTP) in a subject. In another embodiment, thisinvention relates to preventing a decrease in the levels ofdehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr24) in a subject. In one embodimentthe lipogenesis is related to high fat diet consumption. In anotherembodiment the lipogenesis is related to post-menopausal obesity. Inanother embodiment the lipogenesis is related to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the lipogenesis is related to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides methods of use of thecompounds as herein described for improving the lipid profile and/orreducing the circulating lipid levels in a subject. In some embodiments,according to this aspect of the invention, the subject suffers from oneor more conditions selected from the group consisting of:atherosclerosis and its associated diseases, premature aging,Alzheimer's disease, stroke, toxic hepatitis, viral hepatitis,peripheral vascular insufficiency, renal disease, and hyperglycemia, andthe invention provides for the administration of a compound orcomposition comprising the same, as herein described, which in someembodiments positively affects a lipid profile in the subject, which isone means by which the method is useful in treating the indicateddiseases, disorders and conditions.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of improving alipid profile in a subject, comprising administering a NRBA of formula(I)-(XII) or its prodrug, ester, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combination thereof, or acomposition comprising the same, thereby improving the lipid profile insaid subject. In some embodiments ER-β agonists are useful in improvinga lipid profile in a subject. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12b, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12f, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12h, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12p, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12s, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 14m, listed in Table 1, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the phrase “improving a lipid profile” may refer tolowering pathogenic circulating lipid levels, lowering plaque formationin vasculature, altering circulating HDL/LDL ratios, ratios reducing theratio of LDL levels to HDL levels, lowering circulating cholesterollevels, preventing lipid accumulation in vasculature, or any combinationthereof, or other therapeutic effects related thereto, as will beappreciated by one skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of reducingcirculating lipid levels in a subject, said method comprisingadministering a compound of this invention or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, hydrate, N-oxide, or any combination thereof, or acomposition comprising the same. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1. In one embodiment, the subject suffers fromatherosclerosis and its associated diseases, premature aging,Alzheimer's disease, stroke, toxic hepatitis, viral hepatitis,peripheral vascular insufficiency, renal disease, hyperglycemia, or anycombination thereof.

Hyperlipidemia is the presence of raised or abnormal levels of lipidsand/or lipoproteins in the blood. Lipids (fatty molecules) aretransported in a protein capsule, and the density of the lipids and typeof protein determines the fate of the particle and its influence onmetabolism. Lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities are extremely common inthe general population, and are regarded as a highly modifiable riskfactor for cardiovascular disease due to the influence of cholesterol,one of the most clinically relevant lipid substances, onatherosclerosis.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hyperlipidemia. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing hyperlipidemia. In one embodiment, thehyperlipidemia is related to a post-menopausal obesity. In anotherembodiment the hyperlipidemia is related to high fat diet consumption.In another embodiment the hyperlipidemia is related to visceral obesity.In another embodiment the hyperlipidemia is related to visceral obesityat andropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administeringa compound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to a method of decreasing,suppressing, inhibiting or reducing adipogenesis in a subject,comprising the step of administering to the subject a compound as hereindescribed and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, crystal, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to increasing the levelsof Cell death inducing DNA fragmentation factor (CIDEA) in a subject. Inanother embodiment, this invention relates to preventing a decrease inthe levels of Cell death inducing DNA fragmentation factor (CIDEA) in asubject. In one embodiment, the decrease is related to high fat dietconsumption. In another embodiment the decrease is related topost-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the decrease is relatedto visceral obesity. In another embodiment the decrease is related tovisceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment the methodscomprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention relates to a method of inhibitingPeroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) function. Inanother embodiment, this invention relates to a method of inhibitingPeroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) function throughindirectly acting agents such as ER-β agonists. In another embodiment,this invention relates to a method of inhibiting Peroxisome ProliferatorActivated Receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) function without causing adverse sideeffects. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment this invention provides a method of treating a subjectsuffering from post menopausal conditions, said method comprising thestep of administering to said subject a NRBA and/or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, hydrate, N-oxide, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the NRBA is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the NRBA is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the NRBA is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the NRBA is compound 14m, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the NRBA is compound 15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i,listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment this invention provides a method of suppressing,inhibiting or reducing the risk of post menopausal conditions, saidmethod comprising the step of administering to said subject a NRBAand/or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, N-oxide, or anycombination thereof. In another embodiment the NRBA is compound 12u,listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBA is compound 12y,listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBA is compound 12z,listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBA is compound 14m,listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the NRBA is compound 15a, 15b,15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a metabolic disorder, such as obesity, metabolic syndrome,insulin resistance, diabetes (e.g., Type I diabetes, Type II diabetes,diabetes mellitus), atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, fatty liver,osteoporosis and/or leptin related disorders. In another embodiment, thepresent invention provides methods for preventing a metabolic disorder,such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetes (e.g.,Type I diabetes, Type II diabetes, diabetes mellitus), atherosclerosis,hyperlipidemia, fatty liver, osteoporosis and/or leptin relateddisorders. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of treating anobesity-associated metabolic disorder in a subject. In anotherembodiment, this invention relates to a method of preventing,suppressing, inhibiting or reducing an obesity-associated metabolicdisorder in a subject. In one embodiment the obesity-associatedmetabolic disorder is related to high fat diet consumption. In anotherembodiment the obesity-associated metabolic disorder is related topost-menopausal obesity. In another embodiment the obesity-associatedmetabolic disorder is related to visceral obesity. In another embodimentthe obesity-associated metabolic disorder is related to visceral obesityat andropause. In another embodiment, this invention relates to a methodof treating an obesity-associated metabolic disorder in a subject,comprising the step of administering to the subject a compound as hereindescribed and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, crystal, or any combination thereof, in anamount effective to treat the obesity-associated metabolic disorder inthe subject. In another embodiment, this invention relates to a methodof preventing, suppressing, inhibiting or reducing an obesity-associatedmetabolic disorder in a subject, comprising the step of administering tothe subject a compound as herein described and/or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, crystal,or any combination thereof, in an amount effective to prevent, suppress,inhibit or reduce the obesity-associated metabolic disorder in thesubject. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the obesity-associated metabolic disorder ishypertension. In another embodiment, the disorder is osteoarthritis. Inanother embodiment, the disorder is increased blood pressure. In anotherembodiment, the disorder is a stroke. In another embodiment, thedisorder is heart disease.

Metabolic syndrome refers to a cluster of metabolic risk factors ormedical disorders that together increase the risk of developingcardiovascular disease and diabetes. The main features of metabolicsyndrome include insulin resistance, hypertension (high blood pressure),cholesterol abnormalities, and an increased risk for clotting. Patientsare most often overweight or obese.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of metabolic syndrome. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing metabolic syndrome. In oneembodiment, the metabolic syndrome is a post-menopausal metabolicsyndrome. In another embodiment the metabolic syndrome is related tohigh fat diet consumption. In another embodiment the metabolic syndromeis related to visceral obesity. In another embodiment the metabolicsyndrome is related to visceral obesity at andropause. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

“Muscle wasting” refers to the progressive loss of muscle mass and/or tothe progressive weakening and degeneration of muscles, including theskeletal or voluntary muscles, which control movement, cardiac muscles,which control the heart (cardiomyopathics), and smooth muscles. Chronicmuscle wasting is a chronic condition (i.e. persisting over a longperiod of time) characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass,weakening and degeneration of muscle.

Muscle wasting is associated with chronic, neurological, genetic orinfectious pathologies, diseases, illnesses or conditions. These includemuscular dystrophies such as duchenne muscular dystrophy and myotonicdystrophy; muscle atrophies such as post-polio muscle atrophy (PPMA);cachexias such as cardiac cachexia, AIDS cachexia and cancer cachexia,malnutrition, leprosy, diabetes, renal disease, chronic obstructivepulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, end stage renal failure, sarcopenia,emphysema, osteomalacia, HIV infection, AIDS, and cardiomyopathy

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of muscle wasting. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing muscle wasting. In one embodiment, themuscle wasting is a post-menopausal muscle wasting. In anotherembodiment the muscle wasting is due to high fat diet consumption. Inanother embodiment the muscle wasting is due to visceral obesity. Inanother embodiment the muscle wasting is due to visceral obesity atandropause. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

“Cachexia” is weakness and a loss of weight caused by a disease or as aside effect of illness. Cardiac Cachexia, i.e. a muscle protein wastingof both the cardiac and skeletal muscle, is a characteristic ofcongestive heart failure. Cancer Cachexia is a syndrome that occurs inpatients with solid tumors and hematological malignancies and ismanifested by weight loss with massive depletion of both adipose tissueand lean muscle mass. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).Cachexia is a Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) associated myopathyand/or muscle weakness/wasting that is a relatively common clinicalmanifestation of AIDS. Individuals with HIV-associated myopathy ormuscle weakness or wasting typically experience significant weight loss,generalized or proximal muscle weakness, tenderness, and muscle atrophy.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of Cachexia. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing Cachexia. In one embodiment, theCachexia is a post-menopausal Cachexia. In another embodiment theCachexia is due to high fat diet consumption. In another embodiment theCachexia is due to visceral obesity. In another embodiment the Cachexiais due to visceral obesity at andropause. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In another embodiment, this invention relates to methods of increasingmyoanabolism. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides: a) a method of treatingendometriosis in a subject; b) a method of treating breast cancer in asubject; c) a method of treating lung cancer in a subject; d) a methodof reducing aggressive behavior in a subject; e) a method of treatinganxiety in a subject; f) a method of treating hot flashes in a subject;g) a method of treating post-menopausal osteoporosis in a subject,comprising administering a compound of this invention and/or an analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. ER-βantagonists might be useful to treat various conditions such as anxiety,hot flashes and post-menopausal osteoporosis. Most of the abovementioned indications are mediated primarily by ER-α. Mechanistically,it is a well known fact that ER-β is a dominant negative inhibitor ofER-α. Hence, in these post-menopausal conditions, the binding andactivation of even the limited amount of circulating estrogens to ER-αis inhibited by the binding and activation of ER-β. Inhibiting ER-β withantagonists will provide a way to relieve its repressive effects onER-α, leading to increase in ER-α function. Hence, ER-β antagonistscould be used to treat hot flashes, post-menopausal osteoporosis andanxiety.

Endometriosis is a debilitating medical condition in females in whichendometrial-like cells appear and flourish in areas outside the uterinecavity, most commonly on the ovaries. The uterine cavity is lined byendometrial cells, which are under the influence of female hormones.These endometrial-like cells in areas outside the uterus (endometriosis)are influenced by hormonal changes and respond similarly as do thosecells found inside the uterus. Endometriosis is typically seen duringthe reproductive years; it has been estimated that it occurs in roughly5% to 10% of women. A major symptom of endometriosis is recurring pelvicpain. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fainting, dizzyspells, vertigo, frequent or constant menstrual flow, chronic fatigue,mood swings, extreme pain in legs and thighs, back pain, mild to extremepain during intercourse and others.

During endometriosis, ER-β is pathologically over-expressed resulting ininhibition of progestin and PR action. Combining ER-β antagonist mayimprove the therapeutic efficacy of progestin. Alternatively, ER-βantagonist alone may recover endogeneous progestin function.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting, suppressing, delaying the onset of, reducing theincidence of, or reducing the severity of endometriosis comprisingadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis an ER-β antagonist. In another embodiment the compound is compound15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

It has been shown that activation of ER-β leads to increasedproliferation in breast cancer and lung cancer. Accordingly, inhibitionof ER-β may be useful for treating breast cancer and lung cancer.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting, suppressing, delaying the onset of, reducing theincidence of, or reducing the severity of breast cancer comprisingadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis an ER-β antagonist. In another embodiment the compound is compound15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting, suppressing, delaying the onset of, reducing theincidence of, or reducing the severity of lung cancer comprisingadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment thecompound is an ER-β antagonist. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of reducingaggressive behavior in a subject comprising administering a compound ofthis invention. In another embodiment the compound is an ER-βantagonist. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 15a, 15b, 15c,15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting, suppressing, delaying the onset of, reducing theincidence of, or reducing the severity of anxiety in a subjectcomprising administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is an ER-β antagonist. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting, suppressing, delaying the onset of, reducing theincidence of, or reducing the severity of hot flashes in a subjectcomprising administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is an ER-β antagonist. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment this invention relates to methods of treating,preventing, inhibiting, suppressing, delaying the onset of, reducing theincidence of, or reducing the severity of post-menopausal osteoporosisin a subject comprising administering a compound of this invention. Inanother embodiment the compound is an ER-β antagonist. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 15a, 15b, 15c, 15g, 15h, or 15i,listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides: a) a method of treating abone-related condition in a subject; b) a method of increasing a bonemass in a subject; c) a method of improving the lipid profile in asubject; d) a method of treating atherosclerosis and its associateddiseases; e) a method of improving dexterity and movement in a subject;f) a method of treating a subject having dysmenorrheal comprising thestep of administering to said subject a compound of this inventionand/or an analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof.

In one embodiment, the methods of this invention are useful in treatingdiseases or disorders caused by, or associated with a hormonal disorder,disruption or imbalance. In one embodiment, the hormonal disorder,disruption or imbalance comprises an excess of a hormone. In anotherembodiment, the hormonal disorder, disruption or imbalance comprises adeficiency of a hormone. In one embodiment, the hormone is a steroidhormone. In another embodiment, the hormone is an estrogen. In anotherembodiment, the hormone is an androgen. In another embodiment, thehormone is a glucocorticoid. In another embodiment, the hormone is acortico-steroid. In another embodiment, the hormone is LuteinizingHormone (LH). In another embodiment, the hormone is Follicle StimulatingHormone (FSH). In another embodiment, the hormone is any other hormoneknown in the art. In another embodiment, the hormonal disorder,disruption or imbalance is associated with menopause. In anotherembodiment, the hormonal disorder, disruption or imbalance is associatedwith andropause, andropausal vasomotor symptoms, andropausalgynecomastia, muscle strength and/or function, bone strength and/orfunction and anger. In another embodiment, hormone deficiency is aresult of specific manipulation, as a byproduct of treating a disease ordisorder in the subject. For example, the hormone deficiency may be aresult of androgen depletion in a subject, as a therapy for prostatecancer in the subject. Each possibility represents a separate embodimentof the present invention.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided forhormonal therapy in a patient (i.e., one suffering from anandrogen-dependent condition) which includes contacting an nuclearhormone receptor of a patient with a compound and/or a non steroidalagonist of the present invention and/or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, hydrate, N-oxide or any combinationthereof, in an amount effective to bind the compound to the receptor andeffect a change in an hormone-dependent condition. In another embodimentthe compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment of this invention, a method is provided for hormonereplacement therapy in a patient, which includes administering acompound as herein described and/or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, hydrate, N-oxide or any combinationthereof, to a subject, in an amount sufficient to effect a change in ahormone-dependent condition in the subject. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

Hormone-dependent conditions which may be treated with the compoundsand/or compositions as herein described, comprising the methods of thepresent invention include those conditions which are associated withaging, hypogonadism, diminished erythropoiesis, osteoporosis, and anyother conditions dependent upon low estrogen levels.

Hormone-dependent conditions which may be treated with the compoundsand/or compositions as herein described, and comprising a method of theinvention, may comprise conditions characterized by elevated estrogenlevels, including infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometrialcarcinoma, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and others, as will be knownto one skilled in the art. For such conditions, the subject may beadministered a compound as herein described, alone or in combinationwith another therapeutic agent, as will be appreciated by one skilled inthe art.

In another embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating ahormone dependent disease, disorder or condition, the method comprisingadministering to the subject a compound as herein described, andoptionally chemotherapeutics agents and therapies (methotrexate,cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, adriamycin, doxorubicin, glucocorticoids,cyclosporine, L-thyroxine, AI, fulvestrant, GnRH agents, ADT,discontinuation of hormone replacement therapy, cranial irradiation,peripheral irradiation, etc.; prolactinemia-inducingpharmacotherapeutics (serotonergic antidepressants acting through 5-HT₂receptors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, monoamine oxidaseinhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, antihypertensives such asmethyldopa, reserpine, clonidine, and verapamil; antidopaminergicanti-emetics such as metoclopramide, H₂ receptor antagonists such ascimetidine and ranitidine, estrogens, amphetamines, AR partialantagonists (ketoconazole, spironolactone, eplerenone).

In some embodiments, this invention provides for the use of a compoundas herein described, or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, for treating reducing the severity of, reducing the incidenceof, or reducing pathogenesis of cachexia and/or cachexia associated withcancer in a subject. In another embodiment, the cancer compriseadrenocortical carcinoma, anal cancer, bladder cancer, brain tumor,brain stem glioma, brain tumor, cerebellar astrocytoma, cerebralastrocytoma, ependymoma, medulloblastoma, supratentorial primitiveneuroectodermal, pineal tumors, hypothalamic glioma, breast cancer,carcinoid tumor, carcinoma, cervical cancer, colon cancer, endometrialcancer, esophageal cancer, extrahepatic bile duct cancer, ewings familyof tumors (Pnet), extracranial germ cell tumor, eye cancer, intraocularmelanoma, gallbladder cancer, gastric cancer, germ cell tumor,extragonadal, gestational trophoblastic tumor, head and neck cancer,hypopharyngeal cancer, islet cell carcinoma, laryngeal cancer, leukemia,acute lymphoblastic, leukemia, oral cavity cancer, liver cancer, lungcancer, non small cell lung cancer, small cell, lymphoma, AIDS-relatedlymphoma, central nervous system (primary), lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell,lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's disease, malignantmesothelioma, melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, metasatic squamouscarcinoma, multiple myeloma, plasma cell neoplasms, mycosis fungoides,myelodysplastic syndrome, myeloproliferative disorders, nasopharyngealcancer, neuroblastoma, oropharyngeal cancer, osteosarcoma, ovarianepithelial cancer, ovarian germ cell tumor, ovarian low malignantpotential tumor, pancreatic cancer, exocrine, pancreatic cancer, isletcell carcinoma, paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer, parathyroidcancer, penile cancer, pheochromocytoma cancer, pituitary cancer, plasmacell neoplasm, prostate cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma, rectal cancer, renalcell cancer, salivary gland cancer, Sezary syndrome, skin cancer,cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, skin cancer, Kaposi's sarcoma, skin cancer,melanoma, small intestine cancer, soft tissue sarcoma, soft tissuesarcoma, testicular cancer, thymoma, malignant, thyroid cancer, urethralcancer, uterine cancer, sarcoma, unusual cancer of childhood, vaginalcancer, vulvar cancer, Wilms' tumor, or any combination thereof.

In another embodiment, this invention provides for the use of a compoundas herein described, or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, for treating reducing the severity of, reducing the incidenceof, delaying the onset of lung cancer. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII.

In another embodiment, this invention provides for the use of a compoundas herein described, or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, for treating reducing the severity of, reducing the incidenceof, delaying the onset of non small cell lung cancer.

Colon cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed malignancy in theUnited States, as well as the second most common cause of cancer death.Cholesterol-rich diets have had a significant epidemiologicalassociation with cancers of the colon, which in turn may be influencedby the administration of compounds which modulate nuclear hormonebinding agents, in particular, compounds which modulate receptorsbinding components of the steroidogenic pathway, in particular, asdescribed herein.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing the recurrence, inhibiting, reducing the incidence of,delaying onset, reducing the recurrence of, or reducing the severity ofcolon cancer in a subject, comprising administering a compound offormula (I)-(XII), or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or anycombination thereof, to the subject. In another embodiment the compoundis a compound of formula (I)-(XII). In some embodiments ER-β agonistsare useful in treating, preventing the recurrence, inhibiting, reducingthe incidence of, delaying onset, reducing the recurrence of, orreducing the severity of colon cancer in a subject. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12b, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12f, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12h, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12p, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12s, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12z, listed in Table 1, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, this invention provides methods of 1) improving thelipid profile of a subject; 2) reducing the circulating lipid levels ina subject; 3) increasing high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterollevels in a subject; 4) altering ratios of low density lipoprotein tohigh density lipoprotein levels in a subject; wherein said subject hasprostate cancer and is undergoing or has undergone ADT, wherein saidmethod comprises administering to said subject a compound of formula(I)-(XII) or its prodrug, ester, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment, the method comprises administering a compositioncomprising the compound of this invention. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment thecompound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, this invention provides for the use of a compound asherein described, or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, for a) treating a bone related disorder; b) preventing a bonerelated disorder; c) suppressing a bone related disorder; d) inhibitinga bone related disorder; e) increasing a strength of a bone of asubject; f) increasing a bone mass in a subject; g) use forosteoclastogenesis inhibition.

In one embodiment, this invention provides for the use of a compound asherein described, or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, for a) Accelerate bone repair; b) treating bone disorders; c)treating bone density loss; d) treating low bone mineral density (BMD);e) treating reduced bone mass; f) treating metabolic bone disease; g)promoting bone growth or regrowth; h) promoting bone restoration; i)promoting bone fracture repair; j) promoting bone remodeling; k)treating bone damage following reconstructive surgery including of theface, hip, or joints; l) enhancing of bone strength and function; m)increasing cortical bone mass; n) increasing trabecular connectivity.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, reducing the severity of, delaying onset or reducing therecurrence of a bone-related disease or disorder in a subject,comprising administering a NRBA of this invention to the subject. In oneembodiment, the subject is administered a NRBA or composition comprisingthe same, wherein the NRBA is a of formula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug,ester, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity,N-oxide or hydrate, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments ER-βagonists are useful in treating, preventing, reducing the severity of,delaying onset, reducing the recurrence of a bone-related disease ordisorder in a subject. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of thisinvention is compound 12b, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment,ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12f, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12h,listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this inventionis compound 12p, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonistof this invention is compound 12s, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12z, listed in Table 1, In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 14m, listed inTable 1, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the bone related disorder is a genetic disorder, orin another embodiment, is induced as a result of a treatment regimen fora given disease.

In one embodiment, the bone-related disorder is osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the bone-related disorder is osteopenia. In anotherembodiment, the bone-related disorder is increased bone resorption. Inanother embodiment, the bone-related disorder is bone fracture. Inanother embodiment, the bone-related disorder is bone frailty.

In another embodiment, the bone-related disorder is a loss of bonemineral density (BMD). In another embodiment, the bone-related disorderis any combination of osteoporosis, osteopenia, increased boneresorption, bone fracture, bone frailty and loss of BMD. Each disorderrepresents a separate embodiment of the present invention.

“Osteoporosis” refers, in one embodiment, to a thinning of the boneswith reduction in bone mass due to depletion of calcium and boneprotein. In another embodiment, osteoporosis is a systemic skeletaldisease, characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bonetissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibilityto fracture. In osteoporotic patients, bone strength is abnormal, in oneembodiment, with a resulting increase in the risk of fracture. Inanother embodiment, osteoporosis depletes both the calcium and theprotein collagen normally found in the bone, in one embodiment,resulting in either abnormal bone quality or decreased bone density. Inanother embodiment, bones that are affected by osteoporosis can fracturewith only a minor fall or injury that normally would not cause a bonefracture. The fracture can be, in one embodiment, either in the form ofcracking (as in a hip fracture) or collapsing (as in a compressionfracture of the spine). The spine, hips, and wrists are common areas ofosteoporosis-induced bone fractures, although fractures can also occurin other skeletal areas. Unchecked osteoporosis can lead, in anotherembodiment, to changes in posture, physical abnormality, and decreasedmobility.

In one embodiment, the osteoporosis results from androgen deprivation.In another embodiment, the osteoporosis follows androgen deprivation. Inanother embodiment, the osteoporosis is primary osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the osteoporosis is secondary osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the osteoporosis is postmenopausal osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the osteoporosis is juvenile osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the osteoporosis is idiopathic osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the osteoporosis is senile osteoporosis.

In another embodiment, the primary osteoporosis is Type I primaryosteoporosis. In another embodiment, the primary osteoporosis is Type IIprimary osteoporosis. Each type of osteoporosis represents a separateembodiment of the present invention.

According to this aspect of the invention and in one embodiment, thebone-related disorder is treated with a compound as herein described, ora combination thereof. In another embodiment, other bone-stimulatingcompounds can be provided to the subject, prior to, concurrent with orfollowing administration of a compound or compounds as herein described.In one embodiment, such a bone stimulating compound may comprise naturalor synthetic materials.

In another embodiment, the invention provides, a method of reducing theincidence, inhibiting, suppressing, and treating osteoporosis, bonefractures and/or loss of bone mineral density (BMD) in a subject,comprising administering a NRBA/of formula (I)-(XII), or its prodrug,ester, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph, crystal, impurity,N-oxide or hydrate, or any combination thereof, or a compositioncomprising the same, thereby reducing the incidence, inhibiting,suppressing, and treating osteoporosis, bone fractures and/or loss ofbone mineral density (BMD) in the subject. In some embodiments ER-βagonists are useful in reducing the incidence, inhibiting, suppressing,and treating osteoporosis, bone fractures and/or loss of bone mineraldensity (BMD) in a subject. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of thisinvention is compound 12b, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment,ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12f, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12h,listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this inventionis compound 12p, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonistof this invention is compound 12s, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 14m, listed inTable 1 or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the bone stimulating compound may comprise a bonemorphogenetic protein (BMP), a growth factor, such as epidermal growthfactor (EGF), a fibroblast growth factor (FGF), a transforming growthfactor (TGF, an insulin growth factor (IGF), a platelet-derived growthfactor (PDGF) hedgehog proteins such as sonic, indian and deserthedgehog, a hormone such as follicle stimulating hormone, parathyroidhormone, parathyroid hormone related peptide, activins, inhibins,follistatin, frizzled, frzb or frazzled proteins, BMP binding proteinssuch as chordin and fetuin, a cytokine such as IL-3, IL-7, GM-CSF, achemokine, such as eotaxin, a collagen, osteocalcin, osteonectin andothers, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art.

In another embodiment, the compositions for use in treating a bonedisorder of this invention may comprise a compound or compounds asherein described an additional bone stimulating compound, or compounds,and osteogenic cells. In one embodiment, an osteogenic cell may be astem cell or progenitor cell, which may be induced to differentiate intoan osteoblast. In another embodiment, the cell may be an osteoblast. Inanother embodiment, nucleic acids which encode bone-stimulatingcompounds may be administered to the subject, which is to be consideredas part of this invention.

In one embodiment, the methods of the present invention compriseadministering the compound for treating osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the methods of this invention comprise administering acompound in combination with SERMs for treating osteoporosis. In anotherembodiment, the SERMs are tamoxifen, 4-hydroxytamoxifene, idoxifene,toremifene, ospemifene, droloxifene, raloxifene, arzoxifene,bazedoxifene, PPT (1,3,5-tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-propyl-1H-pyrazole),DPN, lasofoxifene, pipendoxifene, EM-800, EM-652, nafoxidine,zindoxifene, tesmilifene, miproxifene phosphate, RU 58,688, EM 139, ICI164,384, ICI 182,780, clomiphene, MER-25, diethylstilbestrol,coumestrol, genistein, GW5638, LY353581, zuclomiphene, enclomiphene,delmadinone acetate, DPPE,(N,N-diethyl-2-{4-(phenylmethyl)-phenoxy}ethanamine), TSE-424, WAY-070,WAY-292, WAY-818, cyclocommunol, prinaberel, ERB-041, WAY-397, WAY-244,ERB-196, WAY-169122, MF-101, ERb-002, ERB-037, ERB-017, BE-1060, BE-380,BE-381, WAY-358, [18F]FEDNP, LSN-500307, AA-102, Ban zhi lian, CT-101,CT-102, or VG-101.

In another embodiment, the methods of the present invention compriseadministering the compounds of this invention, in combination withbisphosphonates such as alendronate, tiludroate, clodroniate,pamidronate, etidronate, alendronate, zolendronate, cimadronate,neridronate, minodronic acid, ibandronate, risedronate, orhomoresidronate for treating osteoporosis.

In another embodiment, the methods of the present invention compriseadministering the compound, in combination with Calcitonin such assalmon, Elcatonin, SUN-8577 or TJN-135 for treating osteoporosis.

In another embodiment, the methods of treating osteoporosis of thepresent invention comprise administering the compound of this invention,in combination with a) vitamin D or derivative such as ZK-156979; b)vitamin D receptor ligand and analogues such as calcitriol, topitriol,ZK-150123, TEI-9647, BXL-628, Ro-26-9228, BAL-2299, Ro-65-2299 orDP-035; c) estrogen, estrogen derivative, or conjugated estrogens; d)antiestrogen, progestins, or synthetic estrogen/progestins; e) RANKligand mAb such as denosumab formerly AMG162 (Amgen); f) αvβ3 Integrinreceptor antagonist; g) osteoclast vacuolar ATPase inhibitor; h)antagonist of VEGF binding to osteoclast receptors; i) calcium receptorantagonist; j) PTh (parathyroid hormone) and analogues, PTHrP analogues(parathyroid hormone-related peptide); k) Cathepsin K inhibitors(AAE581, etc.); l) strontium ranelate; m) tibolone; n) HCT-1026,PSK3471; o) gallium maltolate; p) nutropin AQ; q) prostaglandins (forosteo); r) p38 protein kinase inhibitor; s) bone morphogenetic protein;t) inhibitor of BMP antagonism; u) HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor; v)vitamin K or derivative; w) ipriflavone; x) fluoride salts; y) dietarycalcium supplement, and z) osteoprotegerin.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with a nervous systemdisease in a subject. In one embodiment, the method comprisesadministering to a subject a composition comprising a compound and ananti-cancer agent, an immunomodulating agent, an agent treating thecentral nervous system, an anti-infective agent, an agent treating ametabolic disease, an agent treating a wasting disease, a gene therapyagent, an agent treating the endocrine system, vitamins, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, nervous system diseasescomprise autonomic nervous system diseases, central nervous systemdiseases, cranial nerve diseases, demyelinating diseases, nervous systemmalformations, neurologic manifestations, or neuromuscular diseases.

In some embodiments, autonomic nervous system diseases comprisecausalgia, or reflex sympathetic dystrophy.

In some embodiments, central nervous system diseases compriseAlzheimer's disease, arachnoiditis, brain abscess, brain ischemia,central nervous system infections, cerebral palsy, cerebrovasculardisorders, corticobasal ganglionic degeneration (CBGD),Creutzfeldt-Jakob syndrome, Dandy-Walker syndrome, dementia,encephalitis, encephalomyelitis, epilepsy, epilepsy induced hypogonadaland/or hypermetabolic state, essential tremor, Friedreich ataxia,Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker disease, Hallervorden-Spatz syndrome,Huntington disease, hydrocephalus, hypoxia, insomnia, ischemic attack,kuru, Landau-Kleffner syndrome, Lewy Body disease, Machado-Josephdisease, meige syndrome, meningitis, bacterial meningitis, viral,migraine disorders, movement disorders, multiple system atrophy,myelitis, olivopontocerebellar atrophies, Parkinson's disease,parkinsonian disorders, poliomyelitis, postpoliomyelitis syndrome, priondiseases, pseudotumor cerebri, Shy-Drager syndrome, spasms, infantile,spinal cord diseases, supranuclear palsy, syringomyelia, thalamicdiseases, tic disorders, tourette syndrome, or uveomeningoencephaliticsyndrome. In some embodiments, the central nervous system disease iscystic fibrosis induced hypogonadal state.

In some embodiments, cranial nerve diseases comprise bell palsy, cranialnerve diseases, facial hemiatrophy, facial neuralgia, glossopharyngealnerve diseases, Moebius syndrome, or trigeminal neuralgia.

In some embodiments, central nervous system diseases comprise injuriesor damage to the central nervous system (CNS). In some embodiments,injuries or damage to the CNS may be associated with muscle wastingdisorders. Injuries or damage to the CNS can be, for example, caused bydiseases, trauma or chemicals. Examples are central nerve injury ordamage, peripheral nerve injury or damage and spinal cord injury ordamage.

Studies involving patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) have shownthat central neurotransmitters may be altered after SCI causinghypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, whose disruption led toa significant decrease in testosterone and other hormone levels. SCI orother acute illness or trauma characteristically includes heightenedcatabolism in conjunction with the lowered anabolic activity resultingin a condition that is prone to loss of lean body tissue, which is oftenaccompanied by disturbed nutrient utilization. The effects of the lossof lean body mass include the development of wounds and impaired healingmechanisms, further compounding the problem. Because of poor nutritionand protein combined with immobilization, patients with spinal cordinjury are at high risk for bed sores.

In one embodiment, a wide variety of injuries of the CNS may be treatedby the methods of the present invention. CNS injury may refer, in oneembodiment, to a breakdown of the membrane of a nerve cell, or, inanother embodiment, to the inability of the nerve to produce andpropagate nerve impulses, or in another embodiment, to the death of thecell. An injury includes damage that directly or indirectly affects thenormal functioning of the CNS. The injury may be a structural, physical,or mechanical impairment and may be caused by physical impact, as in thecase of a crushing, compression, or stretching of nerve fibers.Alternatively, the cell membrane may be destroyed by or degraded by anillness, a chemical imbalance, or a physiological malfunction such asanoxia (e.g., stroke), aneurysm, or reperfusion. A CNS injury includes,for example and without limitation, damage to retinal ganglion cells, atraumatic brain injury, a stroke-related injury, a cerebralaneurism-related injury, a spinal cord injury, including monoplegia,diplegia, paraplegia, hemiplegia and quadriplegia, a neuroproliferativedisorder, or neuropathic pain syndrome.

Injuries or damage to the central nervous system (CNS) are alsoassociated with muscle wasting and other wasting disorders. Injuries ordamage to the CNS can be, for example, caused by diseases, trauma orchemicals. Examples are central nerve injury or damage, peripheral nerveinjury or damage and spinal cord injury or damage. In one embodiment CNSdamage or injury comprise Alzheimer's diseases (AD); anger (mood);anorexia, anorexia nervosa, anorexia associated with aging and/orassertiveness (mood).

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, suppressing, inhibiting, or reducing the incidence ofcentral nervous system (CNS) disorder, disease or condition in amammalian subject comprising administering a compound of formula(I)-(XII) or its prodrug, ester, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combination thereof to thesubject.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with an ophthalmicdisease in a subject. In one embodiment, the method comprisesadministering to a subject a composition comprising a NRBA compound. Inone embodiment, the method comprises administering to a subject acomposition comprising a NRBA compound and an anti-cancer agent, animmunomodulating agent, an agent treating the cardiovascular system, ananti-infective agent, an agent treating a wasting disease, a genetherapy agent, an agent treating the endocrine system, vitamins, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments ophthalmic disease compriseacute zonal occult outer retinopathy, abnormal color vision, Adiesyndrome, albinism, ocular-amaurosis, fugax, amblyopia, aniridia,anisocoria, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, anophthalmos, aphakia,asthenopia astigmatism, autoimmune disease blepharitis, blepharoptosis,blepharospasm, blindness, cataract, senile cataract centralchorioretinopathy chalazion, chorioretinitis, chorioretinal hemorrhage,choroideremia, coloboma, color vision defects, conjunctivitis, cornealdiseases, corneal dystrophies, corneal edema, corneal ulcer, cornealopacity, corneal erosion, corneal endothelial cell degeneration anddystrophy or loss of endothelial cell, corneal dystrophy ordegeneration, detachment of corneal epithelium, epidemickeratoconjunctivitis, chalazion, central nerve diseases, central retinalartery or vein occlusion, arteriosclerosis of retinal artery, photopsia,diabetic retinopathy, chorioretinal atrophy, diabetic retinopathy,diplopia, distichiasis, dry eye syndromes, Duane retraction syndrome,ectropion, entropion, esotropia, exfoliation syndrome, exotropia, eyehemorrhage, eye neoplasms, eyelid diseases, floaters, general fibrosissyndrome, glaucoma, high tension glaucoma, normal tension glaucoma,gyrate atrophy, hemianopsia, Hermanski-Pudlak syndrome, hordeolum,Horner syndrome, hysteria hyperopia, hyphema, iridocyclitis iritis,Kearns-Sayer syndrome, keratitis, keratoconus, lacrimal apparatusdiseases, lacrimal duct obstruction, lens diseases, lowering in dynamicvisual activity, macular degeneration, macular hole microphthalmos,myopia, nystagmus, narrowing of visual field due to various kinds ofdiseases pathologic, ocular motility disorders, oculomotor nervediseases, ophthalmoplegia, optic atrophies, optic nerve diseases, opticneuritis, optic neuropathy, optic nerve atrophy orbital cellulitis,papilledema, peter's anomaly, presbyopia, psychosis pterygium, pupildisorders, refractive errors, retinal detachment, retinal diseases,retinal vein occlusion, retinal and choroidal neovascular diseases,cataract due to removal of ovary, cataract due to TGFβ, macularfibrosis, macular epiretinal membrane, refractive error retinal tear,retinitis proliferans, pigmentary retinal degeneration retinitispigmentosa, retinopathy of prematurity, retinoschisis, scleritis, senilemacular degeneration scotoma, strabismus, Thygeson's superficialpunctate keratitis, trachoma, uveitis, white dot syndrome, visiondisorders, or vitreous disorders, diseases due to cerebral pituitarygland disorder and imbalance of hormones, diseases due to gene disorderand diseases due to immune disorder, the method comprising administeringa NRBA of formula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or anycombination thereof to the subject.

In another embodiment, the methods of treating eye diseases compriseadministering a composition comprising the compounds of this inventionto the subject, wherein the composition is in the form of eye drops, eyewash, ointments, conjunctival injections, or contact lens adsorbents. Inanother embodiment, the methods of treating eye diseases comprisesadministering a composition comprising the compounds of this inventionin the form of a tablet, capsule, liquid, syrup, injection, hap,ointment, eye drops, and the like, and administered orally, ornon-orally such as injection, locally such as dropping to eye, etc. Theeffective ingredient may be vaporized and inhaled, for example throughthe nose, mouth or trachea.

In some embodiment, the methods of treating eye diseases compriseadministering a composition comprising the compounds of this inventionand any other compound, which is useful in treating the indicatedconditions, as known in the art.

In some embodiment, eye drops and eye wash comprise water-solubilizedcompounds (I)-(XII) of this invention, which are, in one embodiment,dissolved in sterilized distilled water, BSS Plus, and/or physiologicalsaline. In another embodiment, the compounds of this invention. Inanother embodiment, additives are added comprising excipients, carriers,pH controllers, isotonic agents, preservatives, glutathione, glucose,various kind of salt(s), stabilizers, refrigerants, antioxidants,antiseptic agents, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment,the eye drops and eye wash comprise hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose,carboxymethyl cellulose or its sodium salt, polypyrrolidone,polyvinylpyrrolidone (this is added and heated), or any combinationthereof.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with an endocrinedisorder in a subject. In one embodiment, the method comprisesadministering to a subject a composition comprising a compound andanti-cancer agent, an immunomodulating agent, an antidiabetic agent, anagent treating the cardiovascular system, an agent treating thegastrointestinal system, an agent treating a dermatological disorder, anagent treating the central nervous system, an anti-infective agent, anagent treating the liver, an agent treating the kidney, an agenttreating a metabolic disease, an agent treating a wasting disease, agene therapy agent, an agent treating the endocrine system, vitamins, ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, endocrine disorders compriseacromegaly, Addison disease, adrenal gland diseases, adrenalhyperplasia, congenital, androgen-insensitivity syndrome, congenitalhypothyroidism, Cushing syndrome, diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus,diabetes mellitus-type 1, diabetes mellitus-type 2, diabetic,ketoacidosis, empty Sella syndrome, endocrine gland neoplasms, endocrinesystem diseases, gigantism, gonadal disorders, graves disease,hermaphroditism, hyperaldosteronism, hyperglycemic hyperosmolarnonketotic coma, hyperpituitarism, hyperprolactinemia, hyperthyroidism,hypogonadism, hypopituitarism, hypothyroidism, Kallmann syndrome, Nelsonsyndrome, parathyroid diseases, pituitary diseases,polyendocrinopathies, autoimmune, puberty, delayed, puberty, precocious,renal osteodystrophy, thyroid diseases, thyroid hormone resistancesyndrome, thyroid neoplasms, thyroid nodule, thyroiditis, thyroiditis,autoimmune, thyroiditis, subacute, or Wolfram syndrome.

In one embodiment, “Hypogonadism” is a condition resulting from orcharacterised by abnormally decreased functional activity of the gonads,with retardation of growth and sexual development.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with a liver diseasein a subject. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to asubject a composition comprising a compound of this invention andanti-cancer agent, an immunomodulating agent, an agent treating thegastrointestinal system, an anti-infective agent, an agent treating theliver, an agent treating a metabolic disease, an agent treating awasting disease, a gene therapy agent, an agent treating the endocrinesystem, vitamins, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, liverdiseases comprise liver cancer, primary biliary cirrhosis, autoimmunehepatitis, chronic liver disease, cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis,viral hepatitis (hepatitis A, hepatitis B chronic hepatitis B, hepatitisC, chronic hepatitis C, hepatitis D, hepatitis E, hepatitis X), liverfailure, jaundice, neonatal jaundice, hepatoma, liver cancer, liverabscess, alcoholic liver disease, hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease,portal hypertension, primary sclerosing cholangitis, sarcoidosis,tapeworms, alveolar hydatid disease, fascioliasis, schistosomiasis,gaucher disease, Zellweger syndrome, alcoholism, food poisoning,pneumococcal pneumonia' or vibrio vulnificus.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with nerve injury,neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, alcoholic neuropathy, subacute combineddegeneration of the spinal cord, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, suppressing, inhibiting, or reducing the incidence of hotflashes, gynecomastia, and/or hair loss in female subjects, or inanother embodiment, in male human subjects. In one embodiment, inventionprovides a method of treating, preventing, suppressing, inhibiting, orreducing the incidence of hot flashes, gynecomastia, and/or hair loss ina male subject having prostate cancer, comprising administering a NRBAof formula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug, ester, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, or a composition comprising the same, thereby treating,preventing, suppressing, inhibiting, or reducing the incidence of hotflashes, gynecomastia, and/or hair loss in said male human subjects.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with a hypogonadalstate in a subject. In one embodiment, the present invention provides amethod for treating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset orprogression, or reducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated witha pharmacotherapy induced hypogonadal state in a subject. In someembodiments, hypogonadism is caused by treatments which alter thesecretion of hormones from the sex glands in both women and men. In someembodiments, hypogonadism may be “primary” or “central”. In primaryhypogonadism, the ovaries or testes themselves do not function properly.In some embodiments, hypogonadism may be induced by surgery, radiation,genetic and developmental disorders, liver and kidney disease,infection, or certain autoimmune disorders. In some embodiments,menopause is a form of hypogonadism. Menopause may cause, in someembodiments, amenorrhea, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, or irritabilitydue to woman's estrogen levels fall. In one embodiment, the methodcomprises administering to a subject a composition comprising a compoundof this invention and an anti-cancer agent, an immunomodulating agent,an antidiabetic agent, an agent treating the cardiovascular system, anagent treating the gastrointestinal system, an agent treating thecentral nervous system, an agent treating a metabolic disease, an agenttreating a wasting disease, a gene therapy agent, an agent treating theendocrine system, an agent treating a dermatological disorder, ananti-infective agent, an agent treating the liver, an agent treating thekidney, vitamins, or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the term “hot flashes” refers to the following:sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of the body, face andneck flush, red blotches appearing on the chest, back and arms, heavysweating, cold shivering, etc.

It is to be understood that any sex hormone-dependent disease, disorderor condition may be treated via the methods of this invention, using thecompositions of this invention.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with osteopenic statein a subject. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a methodfor treating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression,or reducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with apharmacotherapy induced osteopenic state in a subject. In someembodiments, osteopenia is a mild thinning of the bone mass. In someembodiments, osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis. In someembodiments osteopenia is defined as a bone density between one standarddeviation (SD) and 2.5 SD below the bone density of a normal youngadult. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to asubject a composition comprising a compound of this invention and ananti-cancer agent, an immunomodulating agent, an antidiabetic agent, anagent treating the cardiovascular system, an agent treating thegastrointestinal system, an agent treating the central nervous system,an agent treating a metabolic disease, an agent treating a wastingdisease, a gene therapy agent, an agent treating the endocrine system,an agent treating a dermatological disorder, an anti-infective agent, anagent treating the liver, an agent treating the kidney, vitamins, or acombination thereof.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method fortreating, reducing the incidence, delaying the onset or progression, orreducing and/or abrogating the symptoms associated with a combination ofdiseases and/or disorders in a subject as described hereinabove. In oneembodiment, the method comprises administering to a subject acomposition comprising a compound of this invention and an anti-canceragent, an immunomodulating agent, an antidiabetic agent, an agenttreating the cardiovascular system, an agent treating thegastrointestinal system, an agent treating the central nervous system,an agent treating a metabolic disease, an agent treating a wastingdisease, a gene therapy agent, an agent treating the endocrine system,an agent treating a dermatological disorder, an anti-infective agent, anagent treating the liver, an agent treating the kidney, vitamins, or acombination thereof.

It is to be understood that any method of this invention, as hereindescribed, encompasses the administration of a compound as hereindescribed, or a composition comprising the same, to the subject, inorder to treat the indicated disease, disorder or condition. The methodsas herein described each and/or all may further comprise administrationof an additional therapeutic agent as herein described, and as will beappreciated by one skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to a subject acomposition comprising a compound of this invention and an anti-canceragent, an immunomodulating agent, an antidiabetic agent, an agenttreating the cardiovascular system, an agent treating thegastrointestinal system, an agent treating the central nervous system,an agent treating a metabolic disease, an agent treating a wastingdisease, a gene therapy agent, an agent treating the endocrine system,an agent treating a dermatological disorder, an anti-infective agent, anagent treating the liver, an agent treating the kidney, vitamins,nutritional additives, hormones, each and/or all as herein described, orany other therapeutic agent as herein described, or a combinationthereof.

In another embodiment, this invention provides methods of treatment ofcystic fibrosis and induced hypogonadal states as a result of the same,epilepsy and induced hypogonadal and/or hypermetabolic states as aresult of the same, hereditary angioedema, lupus erythematosus anddecreased BMD as a result of the same, alcohol and smoking inducedosteoporosis, in a subject the methods comprising administering acompound as herein described to the subject.

In another embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating anervous system disease, disorder or condition, the method comprisingadministering to the subject a compound as herein described, andoptionally anti-psychotics, such as, for example, zotepine, haloperidol,amisulpride, risperidone, other D2 dopamine receptor antagonists;anti-epileptics, such as valproic acid, carbamazepine, oxcarbamazepine,etc. or combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of hypertension. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing hypertension. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment the hypertension is primary hypertension. In anotherembodiment the hypertension is secondary hypertension. In anotherembodiment the hypertension is arterial hypertension. In anotherembodiment the hypertension is venous hypertension. In anotherembodiment the hypertension is malignant hypertension. In anotherembodiment the hypertension is in the elderly. In another embodiment thehypertension is in the pregnant.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a condition associated with hypertension. In anotherembodiment, the present invention provides methods for preventing acondition associated with hypertension. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with hypertension ishypertensive heart disease. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with hypertension is ventricular hypertrophy. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with hypertension is leftventricular hypertrophy. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith hypertension disease is cardiomegaly. In another embodiment thecondition associated with hypertension is cardiac fibrosis. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with hypertension is cardiomyopathy.In another embodiment the condition associated hypertension is dilatedcardiomyopathy. In another embodiment the condition associated withhypertension is myocardial infarction. In another embodiment thecondition associated with hypertension is congestive heart disease. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with hypertension is cardiacfailure. In another embodiment the condition associated withhypertension is stroke. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith hypertension is hypertensive encephalopathy. In another embodimentthe condition associated with hypertension is hypertensive hypertensiveretinopathy. In another embodiment the condition associated withhypertension is microangiopathy. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with hypertension is hypertensive nephropathy. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with hypertension is pulmonaryembolism. In another embodiment the condition associated withhypertension is pre-eclampsia. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with hypertension is dementia.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension. Inanother embodiment, the present invention provides methods forpreventing a condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with post-menopausalhypertension is hypertensive heart disease. In another embodiment thecondition associated with post-menopausal hypertension is ventricularhypertrophy. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal hypertension is left ventricular hypertrophy. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal hypertensiondisease is cardiomegaly. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith post-menopausal hypertension is cardiac fibrosis. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension iscardiomyopathy. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal hypertension is dilated cardiomyopathy. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension ismyocardial infarction. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith post-menopausal hypertension is congestive heart disease. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with post-menopausalhypertension is cardiac failure. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with post-menopausal hypertension is stroke. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension ishypertensive encephalopathy. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with post-menopausal hypertension is hypertensiveretinopathy. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal hypertension is microangiopathy. In another embodimentthe condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension ishypertensive nephropathy. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith post-menopausal hypertension is pulmonary embolism. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal hypertension ispre-eclampsia. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal hypertension is dementia.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of pulmonary hypertension. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing pulmonary hypertension. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment the pulmonary hypertension is arterial hypertension.In another embodiment the pulmonary hypertension is venous hypertension.In another embodiment the pulmonary hypertension is hypoxichypertension. In another embodiment the pulmonary hypertension is,thromboembolic hypertension. In another embodiment the pulmonaryhypertension is miscellaneous hypertension.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for inducingor increasing vaso-relaxation. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing reduced or decreasedvaso-relaxation. In another embodiment the methods compriseadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment, thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a condition associated with cardiovascular disease. Inanother embodiment, the present invention provides methods forpreventing a condition associated with cardiovascular disease. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with cardiovascular diseaseis cardiac hypertrophy. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith cardiovascular disease is ventricular hypertrophy. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with cardiovascular disease is leftventricular hypertrophy. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith cardiovascular disease is cardiomegaly. In another embodiment thecondition associated with cardiovascular disease is cardiac fibrosis. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with cardiovascular diseaseis cardiomyopathy. In another embodiment the condition associated withcardiovascular disease is dilated cardiomyopathy. In another embodimentthe condition associated with cardiovascular disease is myocardialinfarction. In another embodiment the condition associated withcardiovascular disease is cardiac failure. In another embodiment thecondition associated with cardiovascular disease is congestive heartdisease.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a condition associated with post-menopausal cardiovasculardisease. In another embodiment, the present invention provides methodsfor preventing a condition associated with post-menopausalcardiovascular disease. In another embodiment the methods compriseadministering a compound of this invention. In another embodiment, thecompound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative,isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal ofsaid compound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment thecompound is a compound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer,metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of saidcompound, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compoundis compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with post-menopausalcardiovascular disease is cardiac hypertrophy. In another embodiment thecondition associated with post-menopausal cardiovascular disease isventricular hypertrophy. In another embodiment the condition associatedwith post-menopausal cardiovascular disease is left ventricularhypertrophy. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal cardiovascular disease is cardiomegaly. In anotherembodiment the condition associated with post-menopausal cardiovasculardisease is cardiac fibrosis. In another embodiment the conditionassociated with post-menopausal cardiovascular disease iscardiomyopathy. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal cardiovascular disease is dilated cardiomyopathy. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with post-menopausalcardiovascular disease is myocardial infarction. In another embodimentthe condition associated with post-menopausal cardiovascular disease iscardiac failure. In another embodiment the condition associated withpost-menopausal cardiovascular disease is congestive heart disease.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of cardiac hypertrophy. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing cardiac hypertrophy. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of left ventricular hypertrophy. In another embodiment, thepresent invention provides methods for preventing left ventricularhypertrophy. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment, the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of increased ventricular pressure. In another embodiment, thepresent invention provides methods for preventing increased ventricularpressure. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment, the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of heart failure. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing heart failure. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of congestive heart failure. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing congestive heart failure. Inanother embodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of cardiac fibrosis. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing cardiac fibrosis. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In another embodiment, thepresent invention provides methods for preventing idiopathic pulmonaryfibrosis. In another embodiment the methods comprise administering acompound of this invention. In another embodiment, the compound is acompound of formula I-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is acompound of formula XI or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate,N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, orany combination thereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound12u, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound12z, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of fibrosis. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing fibrosis. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment the fibrosis is cardiac fibrosis. In one embodimentthe fibrosis is cardiac valve fibrosis. In one embodiment the fibrosisis myocardial fibrosis. In one embodiment the fibrosis is pulmonaryfibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis is cystic fibrosis. Inanother embodiment the fibrosis is cirrhosis. In another embodiment thefibrosis is endomyocardial fibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosisis mediastinal fibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis ismyelofibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis is retroperitonealfibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis is progressive massivefibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis is nephrogenic systemicfibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis is Crohn's disease. Inanother embodiment the fibrosis is keloid. In another embodiment thefibrosis is an old myocardial infarction. In another embodiment thefibrosis is scleroderma. In another embodiment the fibrosis is systemicscleroderma. In another embodiment the fibrosis is arthrofibrosis. Inanother embodiment the fibrosis is an adhesive capsulitis. In anotherembodiment the fibrosis is general fibrosis syndrome. In anotherembodiment the fibrosis is pleural fibrosis. In another embodiment thefibrosis is macular fibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis isnodular subepidermal fibrosis. In another embodiment the fibrosis isintestinal fibrosis.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of cystic fibrosis. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing cystic fibrosis. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of myelofibrosis. In another embodiment, the present inventionprovides methods for preventing myelofibrosis. In another embodiment themethods comprise administering a compound of this invention. In anotherembodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or its analog,derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt,pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph, impurityor crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of Crohn's disease. In another embodiment, the presentinvention provides methods for preventing Crohn's disease. In anotherembodiment the methods comprise administering a compound of thisinvention. In another embodiment, the compound is a compound of formulaI-XII or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XIor its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug,polymorph, impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combinationthereof. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed inTable 1.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods for treating,delaying the onset of, reducing the incidence of, or reducing theseverity of a condition associated with insertion of a stent. In anotherembodiment, the present invention provides methods for preventing acondition associated with insertion of a stent. In another embodimentthe methods comprise administering a compound of this invention. Inanother embodiment, the compound is a compound of formula I-XII or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is a compound of formula XI or itsanalog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, prodrug, polymorph,impurity or crystal of said compound, or any combination thereof. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12u, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12y, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. Inanother embodiment the compound is compound 14m, listed in Table 1.

In one embodiment the condition associated with insertion of a stent isvascular fibrosis. In one embodiment the condition associated withinsertion of a stent is vascular remodeling. In one embodiment thecondition associated with insertion of a stent is vascular cellproliferation. In one embodiment the condition associated with insertionof a stent is vascular cell migration. In another embodiment thecondition associated with insertion of a stent is stent failure. Inanother embodiment the condition associated with insertion of a stent isstenosis. In another embodiment the condition associated with insertionof a stent is restenosis.

In one embodiment the inserted stent is a coronary stent. In oneembodiment the inserted stent is a carotid stent. In one embodiment theinserted stent is a peripheral stent. In one embodiment the insertedstent is a drug eluting stent. In one embodiment the inserted stent is aureteral stent. In one embodiment the inserted stent is a prostaticstent. In one embodiment the inserted stent is an esophageal stent. Inone embodiment the inserted stent is a biliary stent. In one embodimentthe inserted stent is a cerebral stent. In one embodiment the insertedstent is a colorectal stent. In one embodiment the inserted stent is aduodenal stent.

In one embodiment cardiovascular disorders comprise of hypertension(HTN), coronary artery disease (CAD) or myocardial perfusion. In anotherembodiment this invention provides methods of use of the NRBA compoundsas herein described for promoting aortic smooth muscle cellproliferation. In another embodiment this invention provides methods ofuse of the compounds as herein described for treating arteriosclerosis.In one embodiment this invention provides methods of use of thecompounds as herein described in conjunction with vascular stents. Insome embodiments the compounds of this embodiment could be incorporatedonto the stent as a coating to retard vascular fibrosis and remodeling,vascular cell proliferation and migration, etc. that often cause stentfailure or restenosis. In another embodiment this invention providesmethods of use of the compounds as herein described for lowering bloodpressure. In another embodiment this invention provides methods of useof the compounds as herein described for treating cardiac diseases anddisorders comprising cardiomyopathy, cardiac dysfunctions such asmyocardial infarction, cardiac hypertrophy and congestive heart failure.In another embodiment this invention provides methods of use of thecompounds as herein described for cardioprotection comprisingcardioprotection in insulin resistance; treating diabetes type I and II,metabolic syndrome, syndrome X and/or high blood pressure.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, reducing the risk of mortality from cardiovascular and/orcerebrovascular disease in a subject, comprising administering acompound of this invention or its prodrug, ester, analog, isomer,metabolite, derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceuticalproduct, polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or anycombination thereof, or a pharmaceutical composition comprising thesame.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of treating,preventing, reducing the risk of mortality from cardiovascular and/orcerebrovascular disease in a subject, comprising administering a NRBA offormula (I)-(XII) or its prodrug, ester, analog, isomer, metabolite,derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, impurity, N-oxide or hydrate, or any combinationthereof, or a composition comprising the same. In some embodiments ER-βagonists are useful in treating, preventing, reducing the risk ofmortality from cardiovascular and/or cerebrovascular disease in asubject. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12b, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12f, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12h, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12p, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12s, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 12u, listed inTable 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention iscompound 12y, listed in Table 1. In another embodiment, ER-β agonist ofthis invention is compound 12z, listed in Table 1. In anotherembodiment, ER-β agonist of this invention is compound 14m, listed inTable 1, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, cardiovascular disease comprises, inter alia,atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries, angina pectoris, andmyocardial infarction. In one embodiment, cerebrovascular diseasecomprises, inter alia, atherosclerosis of the intracranial orextracranial arteries, stroke, syncope, and transient ischemic attacks.

Cardiovascular cells, as well as reproductive tissues, bone, liver, andbrain, express both of the known estrogen receptors, estrogen receptor-α(ER-α) and estrogen receptor-β (ER-β). These receptors are importanttargets for endogenous estrogen, estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), andpharmacological estrogen agonists. Estrogen-estrogen receptor complexesserve as transcription factors that promote gene expression with a widerange of vascular effects, including regulation of vasomotor tone andresponse to injury, which may be protective against development ofatherosclerosis and ischemic diseases. Estrogen receptors in othertissues, such as the liver, may mediate both beneficial effects (e.g.,changes in apoprotein gene expression that improve lipid profiles) andadverse effects (e.g., increases in gene expression of coagulationproteins and/or decreases in fibrinolytic proteins). Two generalestrogen-mediated vascular effects are recognized. Rapid, transientvasodilation occurs within a few minutes after estrogen exposure,independently of changes in gene expression. Longer-term effects ofestrogen on the vasculature, such as those related to limiting thedevelopment of atherosclerotic lesions or vascular injury, occur overhours to days after estrogen treatment and have as their hallmarkalterations in vascular gene expression. Progesterone and other hormonalreceptors are also expressed in the vasculature.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of improving thedexterity and movement in a subject, for example, by treating arthritisin the subject.

The term “arthritis” refers, in another embodiment, to anon-inflammatory degenerative joint disease occurring chiefly in olderpeople, characterized by degeneration of the articular cartilage,hypertrophy of bones and the margins, changes in the synovial membrane,etc. It is accompanied, in other embodiments, by pain and stiffness,particularly after prolonged activity.

The term “increased blood pressure” or “hypertension” refers, in otherembodiments, to a repeatedly high blood pressure above 140 over 90 mmHg.Chronically-elevated blood pressure can cause blood vessel changes inthe back of the eye, thickening of the heart muscle, kidney failure, andbrain damage. Hypertension may be of a primary or secondary nature.

The term “stroke” refers, in other embodiments, to damage to nerve cellsin the brain due to insufficient blood supply often caused by a burstingblood vessel or a blood clot. The term “heart disease”, in otherembodiments, refers to a malfunction in the heart normal function andactivity, including heart failure.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating vasculardisease in a human subject, comprising the step of administering to saidsubject a compound of this invention or its isomer, pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, or anycombination thereof.

In one embodiment, the NRBAs of this invention bind their cognatereceptor at the cell surface, translocate to the cell's nucleus, andexert their effects. In one embodiment, such effects may comprise, interalia, regulation of particular gene expression, and may in turn play arole in the inhibition of apoptosis, activation of protein kinasepathways, and others.

In another embodiment, the NRBAs of this invention bind cognatereceptors and translocate within the mitochondria, whereupon theyassociate with mitochondrial DNA, and in turn play a role in theincreased respiratory chain activity, inhibition of TGFβ-inducedapoptosis and/or activation of manganese superoxide dismutase, andothers.

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are key enzymes in the cellular defenceagainst free radical oxidation. By catalyzing the degradation of thesuperoxide free radical to water and hydrogen peroxide, SODs, play animportant role in reducing the damage associated with, for exampleischemic injury, chronic lung disease, Alzheimer's disease, Downsyndrome, inflammatory disorders, cardiovascular disease, immune-systemdecline, brain dysfunction, cataracts, and other aspects of aging anddegenerative disease.

In one embodiment, this invention provides a method of treating,ameliorating and/or preventing reactive species-mediated damage in asubject, comprising the step of administering a NRBA of formula(I)-(XII) or its prodrug, analog, isomer, metabolite, derivative,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, impurity, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combination thereofto the subject. In one embodiment, the reactive species comprisesreactive oxygen intermediates and the NRBA promotes or enhances theactivity of cellular superoxide dismutase. In one embodiment, thereactive species comprises reactive nitrogen intermediates and the NRBApromotes or enhances the activity of cellular nitric oxide synthase.

In some embodiments, such damage is associated with a variety ofdiseases, such as, but not limited to cardiovascular disease, such ascoronary heart disease and atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative disease,such as Alzheimer's disease and/or multiple sclerosis, infection, forexample, HCV infection and complications thereof, autoimmune disease,such as lupus, cancer, and others, as appreciated by one skilled in theart.

In some embodiments, such activity results in suppression of pathogenicapoptosis, for example, as occurs in various disease states, such asneurodegenerative diseases or disorders, glaucoma, autoimmune disease,and others as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art.

In some embodiments, the compounds of this invention, characterized bythe structures of formulae I-XII, and including any embodiment thereof,localize within the cytosol of a cell, or within cytosolic organelles,such as mitochondrion, wherein such compounds may affect cellularsignaling pathways, and thereby effect the methods as described herein.For example, and in one embodiment, the compounds may interact withcellular proteins and thereby synergize a desired effect, in someembodiments, in signaling pathways within the cell, producing thedesired effect. In other embodiments, the compounds of formulae I-XIIantagonize a particular response or pathway in the cell, which otherwiseproduces an undesired effect, for example, exacerbating disease, andthus the compounds as described herein are effective in such methods bytheir ability to disrupt or interfere or antagonize pathogenicmechanisms in a cell or in a subject.

In some embodiments, the agents of this invention may alterintracellular signaling pathways or responsiveness to such pathways orcascades.

In some embodiments, downstream effects of the compounds of thisinvention, characterized by the structures of formulae I-XII, andincluding any embodiment thereof, may be controlled by intracellularkinase signaling pathways activated by growth factors. In someembodiments, the compounds may affect signaling downstream of binding ofa hormone to its receptor, for example, with the case of glycogensynthase kinase 3 (GSK3), an effector kinase of the phosphatidylinositol3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, may be activated by administration of acompound of this invention and in turn affect ERalpha activity inspecific cells, for example in neuroblastoma cells, and thereby effectsome of the methods of this invention. In some embodiments, thecompounds of this invention may result in greater expression of GSK3,which in turn stimulates or increases ER-dependent gene expression.

It is to be understood that any use of any of the compounds as hereindescribed may be used in the treatment of any disease, disorder orcondition as described herein, and represents an embodiment of thisinvention.

In some embodiments, any of the compositions useful in the methodsdisclosed herein comprise a compound of this invention, in any form orembodiment as described herein. In some embodiments, of the compositionsof this invention will consist essentially of a compound of thisinvention, in any form or embodiment as described herein.

It is to be understood that any use of any of the compounds as hereindescribed may be used in the treatment of any disease, disorder orcondition as described herein, and represents an embodiment of thisinvention.

An “effective amount” means the amount of a compound or compositionaccording to the invention that, when administered to a patient fortreating a state, disorder or condition is sufficient to effect suchtreatment. The “effective amount” will vary depending on the activeingredient, the state, disorder, or condition to be treated and itsseverity, and the age, weight, physical condition and responsiveness ofthe subject to be treated.

The terms “treat,” “treatment,” and “treating” mean to relieve,alleviate, delay, reduce, reverse, improve, manage or prevent at leastone symptom of a condition in a subject. The term “treating” may alsomean to arrest, delay the onset (i.e., the period prior to clinicalmanifestation of a disease) and/or reduce the risk of developing orworsening a condition.

A subject or patient in whom administration of a therapeutic compound isan effective therapeutic regimen for a disease or disorder is in someembodiments, a human, but can be any animal. Thus, as can be readilyappreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the compositions of thepresent invention are particularly suited to administration to anyanimal, particularly a mammal, and including, but by no means limitedto, humans, domestic animals, such as feline or canine subjects, farmanimals, such as but not limited to bovine, equine, caprine, ovine, andporcine subjects, wild animals (whether in the wild or in a zoologicalgarden), research animals, such as mice, rats, rabbits, goats, sheep,pigs, dogs, cats, etc., avian species, such as chickens, turkeys,songbirds, etc., i.e., for veterinary medical use.

The following examples are presented in order to more fully illustratethe preferred embodiments of the invention. They should in no way,however, be construed as limiting the broad scope of the invention.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Chemical synthesis of4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12u)

Scheme and procedures for synthesis of 12u.

Synthesis of 6,8-dimethoxyisoquinolin-1-ol

A mixture of trans-3,5-dimethoxycinnamic acid (15.30 g, 73.48 mmol) andthionyl chloride (13.11 g, 0.11 mol) were placed in a 250 mLsingle-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a magnetic stiffing barand reflux condenser. Dry methylene chloride (80.0 mL) was added to theabove mixture. The resulted solution was heated to reflux for 3 hours.Then, the solvent was removed under reduced pressure. The residue wasdried under vacuum overnight to give a pale-yellow solid,trans-3,5-dimethoxycinnamic acid chloride.

The pale-yellow solid acid chloride was dissolved in 20 mL of1,4-dioxane and added drop wise over 1 hour to a 0° C. suspension of14.33 g (0.22 mol) of sodium azide in 80 mL of 1:1 (v/v)1,4-dioxane/water. During the addition the temperature was maintained at0° C. in an ice-bath. After complete addition of the acid chloride, themixture was stirred for 1 hour at 0° C., and then diluted with 75 mL ofwater. The mixture was extracted with methylene chloride (3×40 mL); thecombined extracts were dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate followedby filtration and concentration to ca. 100 mL. The solution was dilutedwith 20 mL of phenyl ether and further concentrated to remove theremaining methylene chloride (trans-3,5-dimethoxycinnamic acyl azide).

A 500 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a nitrogen inlet,reflux condenser, an addition funnel, internal thermometer and magneticstiffing bar was charged with 29 mL of tributylamine and 80 mL of phenylether. The solution was heated to 230° C. and the acyl azide in 40 mL ofphenyl ether was added drop wise over 3 hours from an addition funnel.During the addition, the reflux temperature gradually decreased to about200° C. Hence, after completion of the addition, the temperature wasraised to 230° C. After heating for an additional hour at 230° C., themixture was cooled to room temperature. The mixture was poured to 500 mLof hexanes with stiffing. The solid was filtered and washed with hexanes(2×100 mL). The pale-yellow solid was dried and recrystallized fromethyl acetate/methanol mixture to give a pale-yellow crystallinematerial, 10.58 g, 70.2% yield. MS: m/z 228.2 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz): δ 10.71 (s, 1H), 7.02 (d, 1H, J=6.9 Hz), 6.63 (d, 1H, J=2.4Hz), 6.47 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.31 (d, 1H, J=6.9 Hz), 3.83 (s, 3H), 3.79(s, 3H).

Synthesis of 6,8-dimethoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one

6,8-Dimethoxyisoquinolin-1-ol (1.59 g, 7.75 mmol), 4-iodoanisole (2.72,11.62 mmol), copper(I) iodide (0.30 g, 1.55 mmol), L-proline (0.36 g,3.10 mmol) and anhydrous potassium carbonate (2.14 g, 15.50 mmol) wereplaced in a dry 250 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with astiffing bar and reflux condenser. The system was vacuumed and refilledwith dry argon. Then, anhydrous methyl sulfoxide (50 mL) was added via asyringe under argon atmosphere. The reaction solution was stirred andheated to 120° C. for 20 hours. Water (20 mL) was added to quench thereaction. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (5×20 mL). Theextracts were combined, washed with brine (3×10 mL) and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄ followed by filtration and concentration to give ayellow residue. The yellow residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂/Acetone=19/1 v/v) to give apale-yellow solid product, 2.12 g, 88.0% yield. MS: m/z 312.9 [M+H]⁺. ¹HNMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 7.31-7.26 (m, 3H), 7.02 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz),6.71 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.54 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.45 (d, 1H, J=7.8 Hz),3.87 (s, 3H), 3.81 (s, 3H), 3.79 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one

Compound 6,8-dimethoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (2.25 g,7.23 mmol) and LiCl (6.12 g, 144.54 mmol) were placed in a dry, argonflushed 150 mL three-necked flask fitted with a stirring bar and refluxcondenser. Anhydrous DMF (30 mL) was added via a syringe. The reactionmixture was heated to 140° C. under vacuum for 20 hours. Then, thereaction was quenched by addition of 30 mL of 2N HCl solution. Thesolution was extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The extracts were combinedand dried over anhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reducedpressure. The residue was purified by flash column chromatography(silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂) to give a white solid product, 1.80 g, 83.7% yield.¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 12.98 (s, 1H), 7.42-7.35 (m, 3H), 7.06 (d,2H, J=9.0 Hz), 6.70-6.67 (m, 2H), 6.45 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 3.85 (s, 3H),3.82 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate

Compound 8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one(0.60 g, 2.02 mmol) was placed in a dry 250 mL three-necked flask fittedwith a stirring bar and sealed with septa. Anhydrous DMF (15 mL) wasadded via a syringe under argon atmosphere. The solution was cooled to0° C. in an ice-bath. NaH (0.12 g, 3.03 mmol, 60% dispersion in mineraloil) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30minutes. Then, it was warmed to room temperature for 30 minutes. Themixture was cooled to 0° C. again in an ice bath.4-(Trifluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride was added via a syringe withstirring at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30minutes and at room temperature for additional 30 minutes. The reactionwas quenched by adding 20 mL of saturated NH₄Cl solution. The solutionwas diluted with 20 mL of water and stirred for one hour at roomtemperature. It was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×20 mL). The extractswere washed with brine (20 mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄. Thesolvent was removed under reduced pressure. The residue was subjected toflash column chromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂) to give a white solidproduct, 0.93 g, 98.1% yield. MS: m/z 492.1 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz): δ 8.25 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.93 (d, 2H, J=8.4 Hz), 7.40 (d, 1H,J=7.5 Hz), 7.23 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.21 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 7.01 (d, 1H,J=2.4 Hz), 6.98 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.67 (d, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 3.93 (s, 3H),3.76 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate

Compound6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate(0.51 g, 1.09 mmol) and N-bromosuccinimide (0.23 g, 1.30 mmol) wereplaced in a dry, argon flushed 150 mL single-necked flask fitted with astirring bar and sealed with a septa. Acetonitrile (15 mL) was added viaa syringe at room temperature under argon atmosphere. After the mixturewas stirred at room temperature for 5 hours, the solvent was removedunder reduced pressure. The residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂) to give a white solid product, 0.54g, 90.0% yield. MS: m/z 572.1 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 8.26(d, 2H, J=8.1 Hz), 7.93 (d, 2H, J=8.4 Hz), 7.28 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.21(d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 7.20 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.97 (d, 2H, J=9.0 Hz), 3.98(s, 3H), 3.76 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12u)

Compound4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate(2.46 g, 4.49 mmol) was placed in a dry 250 mL single-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and sealed with a rubberstopper. Anhydrous chlorobenzene (60 mL) was added via a syringe at roomtemperature. BBr₃ (6.74 g, 26.92 mmol) was added dropwise with stirringat room temperature. The resulted solution was heated to 100° C. for 20hours. 50 mL of water and 10 mL of methanol were added to quench thereaction at 0° C. The solution was stirred at room temperature for twohours. CH₂Cl₂ layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extractedwith EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layers were combined and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. Theresidue was purified by column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 1.32 g, 84.6% yield.MS: m/e 347.8 [M−H]⁻. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 13.12 (s, 1H), 10.78(s, 1H), 9.81 (s, 1H), 7.75 (s, 1H), 7.28 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.85 (d,2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.61 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.37 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz).

Example 2 Synthesis of6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile(14m)

Scheme and procedures for synthesis of 14m.

4-Bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12u)(0.13 g, 0.37 mmol), Zn(CN)₂ (53 mg, 0.45 mmol),tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium (34 mg, 0.037 mmol), and1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (83 mg, 0.15 mmol) were placed in adry and argon flushed 150 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fittedwith a stirring bar, reflux condenser and an argon inlet. Then,anhydrous dimethylformamide (10 mL) was added via a syringe under argonatmosphere. The reaction solution was stirred and heated to 100° C. for12 hours. Water (20 mL) was added to quench the reaction. The mixturewas extracted with ethyl acetate (2×25 mL). The extracts were combined,washed with brine (10 mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/Acetone/MeOH=80/17/3 v/v/v) to give a pale-yellow solid product,80 mg, 72.7% yield. MS: m/z 307.0 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ12.43 (s, 1H), 10.92 (s, 1H), 9.86 (s, 1H), 8.37 (s, 1H), 7.29 (d, 2H,J=8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.57 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.40 (d, 1H,J=2.1 Hz).

Example 3 Synthesis of4-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12y)

Scheme and procedures for synthesis of 12y.

Synthesis of4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate

Compound6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate(0.55 g, 1.17 mmol) and N-bromosuccinimide (0.19 g, 1.41 mmol) wereplaced in a dry, argon flushed 150 mL single-necked flask fitted with astiffing bar and sealed with a septa. Acetonitrile (15 mL) was added viaa syringe at room temperature under argon atmosphere. After the mixturewas stirred and heated to 60° C. for 8 hours, the solvent was removedunder reduced pressure. The residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, hexanes/EtOAc=7/3 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.56 g, 94.9% yield. MS: m/z 526.2 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz): δ 8.26 (d, 2H, J=8.1 Hz), 7.94 (d, 2H, J=8.4 Hz), 7.28 (d, 2H,J=8.7 Hz), 7.23 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 7.21 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.97 (d, 2H,J=9.0 Hz), 3.99 (s, 3H), 3.76 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of4-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12y)

Compound4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate(0.24 g, 0.48 mmol) was placed in a dry 250 mL single-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and sealed with a rubberstopper. Anhydrous chlorobenzene (20 mL) was added via a syringe at roomtemperature. BBr₃ (0.71 g, 2.86 mmol) was added dropwise with stirringat room temperature. The resulted solution was heated to 100° C. for 20hours. 50 mL of water and 10 mL of methanol were added to quench thereaction at 0° C. The solution was stirred at room temperature for twohours. CH₂Cl₂ layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extractedwith EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layers were combined and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. Theresidue was purified by column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.11 g, 76.1% yield.MS m/e 301.9 (M−H)⁻. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.09 (s, 1H), 10.77(s, 1H), 9.81 (s, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.27 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.85 (d,2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.62 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.38 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz).

Example 4 Synthesis of4-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one(12z)

Synthesis of6,8-dimethoxy-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one

6,8-Dimethoxyisoquinolin-1-ol (0.70 g, 3.41 mmol),4-bromo-2-fluoroanisole (1.05 g, 5.12 mmol), copper(I) iodide (0.13 g,0.68 mmol), L-proline (0.16 g, 1.36 mmol) and anhydrous potassiumcarbonate (0.94 g, 6.82 mmol) were placed in a dry 250 mL three-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stiffing bar and reflux condenser.The system was vacuumed and refilled with dry argon. Then, anhydrousmethyl sulfoxide (20 mL) was added via a syringe under argon atmosphere.The reaction solution was stirred and heated to 120° C. for 20 hours.Water (30 mL) was added to quench the reaction. The mixture wasextracted with ethyl acetate (5×20 mL). The extracts were combined,washed with brine (3×10 mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/Acetone=19/1 v/v) to give a pale-yellow solid product, 0.92 g,82.1% yield. MS: m/z 330.3 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ7.37-7.13 (m, 4H), 6.72 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.55 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.46(d, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 3.89 (s, 3H), 3.87 (s, 3H), 3.80 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-hydroxy-6-methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one

Compound 2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dimethoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one(0.65 g, 1.97 mmol) was placed in a dry 250 mL single-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and sealed with a rubberstopper. Anhydrous methylene chloride (30 mL) was added via a syringe atroom temperature. BBr₃ (16.0 mL of 1M CH₂CL₂ solution) was addeddropwise with stirring at room temperature. The resulted mixture wasstirred at room temperature for 3 days. Then, the reaction was quenchedby adding 50 mL of water and 10 mL of methanol at 0° C. The solution wasstirred at room temperature for two hours. CH₂Cl₂ layer was separatedand the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organiclayers were combined and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent wasremoved under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by columnchromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.45 g, 76.3% yield. MS: m/z 324.2 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz): δ 12.91 (s, 1H), 10.27 (s, 1H), 7.41-7.35 (m, 2H), 7.13-7.03(m, 2H), 6.69-6.65 (m, 2H), 6.44 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 3.85 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of2-(3-fluoro-4-(4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoyloxy)phenyl)-6-methoxy-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate

Compound2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-hydroxy-6-methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one(0.32 g, 1.06 mmol) was placed in a dry 250 mL three-necked flask fittedwith a stirring bar. Anhydrous DMF (20 mL) was added via a syringe underargon atmosphere. The solution was cooled to 0° C. in an ice-bath. NaH(0.13 g, 3.19 mmol, 60% dispersion in mineral oil) was added. Thereaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 minutes. Then, it waswarmed to room temperature for 30 minutes. The mixture was cooled to 0°C. again in an ice bath. 4-(Trifluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride (0.67 g,3.19 mmol) was added via a syringe with stirring at 0° C. The reactionmixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 minutes and at room temperature foradditional 30 minutes. The reaction was quenched by adding 20 mL ofsaturated NH₄Cl solution. The solution was diluted with 20 mL of waterand stirred for one hour at room temperature. It was extracted withethyl acetate (3×20 mL). The extracts were washed with brine (20 mL) anddried over anhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reducedpressure. The residue was subjected to flash column chromatography(silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂) to give a white solid product, 0.60 g, 88.2% yield.MS: m/z 668.3 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 8.34 (d, 2H, J=8.1Hz), 8.27 (d, 2H, J=8.1 Hz), 8.01 (d, 2H, J=8.4 Hz), 7.95 (d, 2H, J=8.4Hz), 7.64-7.53 (m, 3H), 7.34 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.25 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz),7.07 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.74 (d, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 3.94 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of4-bromo-2-(3-fluoro-4-(4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoyloxy)phenyl)-6-methoxy-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate

Compound2-(3-fluoro-4-(4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoyloxy)phenyl)-6-methoxy-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate(0.56 g, 0.87 mmol) and N-bromosuccinimide (0.20 g, 1.13 mmol) wereplaced in a dry, argon flushed 150 mL single-necked flask fitted with astirring bar and sealed with a septa. Acetonitrile (20 mL) was added viaa syringe at room temperature under argon atmosphere. After the mixturewas stirred at room temperature for 5 hours, the solvent was removedunder reduced pressure. The residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂) to give a white solid product, 0.35g, 55.6% yield. MS: m/z 726.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ8.35-8.27 (m, 4H), 8.06-7.90 (m, 5H), 7.69-7.20 (m, 3H), 6.72 (d, 1H,J=2.4 Hz), 6.11 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 3.99 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of4-bromo-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one(12z)

Compound4-bromo-2-(3-fluoro-4-(4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoyloxy)phenyl)-6-methoxy-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzoate(0.34 g, 0.47 mmol) was placed in a dry 250 mL single-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and sealed with a rubberstopper. Anhydrous chlorobenzene (20 mL) was added via a syringe at roomtemperature. BBr₃ (0.71 g, 2.82 mmol) was added dropwise with stirringat room temperature. The resulted solution was heated to 100° C. for 20hours. 50 mL of water and 10 mL of methanol were added to quench thereaction at 0° C. The solution was stirred at room temperature for twohours. CH₂Cl₂ layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extractedwith EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layers were combined and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. Theresidue was purified by column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 82 mg, 48.2% yield.MS: m/e 363.9 [M−H]⁻. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 13.02 (s, 1H), 10.78(s, 1H), 10.27 (s, 1H), 7.79 (s, 1H), 7.41 (dd, 1H, J₁=11.7 Hz, J₂=2.4Hz), 7.16-7.01 (m, 2H), 6.61 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.38 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz).

Example 5 Synthesis of 6-methoxyisoquinoline-1-ol

A mixture of 17.82 g (0.10 mol) of trans-3-methoxycinnamic acid andthionyl chloride (14.28 g, 0.12 mol) were placed in a 250 mLsingle-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and refluxcondenser. 80 mL of dry methylene chloride was added to the flask. Theresulting mixture was heated to reflux for 3 hours and then the solventwas removed under reduced pressure. The residue oil was dried undervacuum overnight.

The pale-yellow solid acid chloride was dissolved in 20 mL of1,4-dioxane and added dropwise with stirring to a 0° C. suspension of19.50 g (0.30 mol) of sodium azide in 80 mL of 1,4-dioxane/water (1:1mixture). During the addition the temperature was maintained at 0° C.After complete addition of the acid chloride, the mixture was stirred at0° C. for an additional hour, and then diluted with 75 mL of water. Themixture was extracted with methylene chloride (2×40 mL). The combinedextracts were dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate, filtered andconcentrated to approximately 100 mL. The solution was diluted with 20mL of phenyl ether and further concentrated to remove the remainingmethylene chloride. A 500 mL 3-necked round-bottomed flask fitted withan argon inlet, reflux condenser, additional funnel and an internalthermometer was charged with 29 mL of tributylamine and 80 mL of phenylether. The solution was heated to 230° C., and the acyl azide in 20 mLof phenyl ether was added dropwise with stirring over 3 hours from anaddition funnel. During the addition, the reflux temperature graduallydecreased to 200° C. After completion of the addition, the distillatewas collected in the addition funnel (15 mL of a 1:1 mixture oftributylamine/phenyl ether) until the temperature reached 230° C. Afterheating for an additional hour at 230° C., the mixture was cooled toroom temperature. The mixture was then combined with 500 mL hexane withstiffing. The solid was filtered and washed with hexanes (2×100 mL). Thepale-yellow solid was recrystallized from ethyl acetate/methanol (9/1v/v) to give a pure pale-yellow crystalline material, 15.28 g, 87.2%yield. MS: 198.1 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 11.06 (s, 1H),8.08 (d, 1H, J=8.5 Hz), 7.14-7.14 (m, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H, J=2.5 Hz),7.05-7.03 (m, 1H), 7.04 (dd, 1H, J₁=9.0 Hz, J₂=2.5 Hz), 6.47 (d, 1H,J=7.0 Hz), 3.86 (s, 3H).

Example 6 Synthesis of6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one

6-Methoxyisoquinoline-1-ol (2.00 g, 11.42 mmol), 4-iodoanisole (4.01 g,17.13 mmol), copper (I) iodide (0.44 g, 2.28 mmol). L-proline (0.53 g,4.57 mmol) and anhydrous potassium carbonate (3.16 g, 22.84 mmol) wereplaced in a dry 250 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with astiffing bar and reflux condenser. The reaction flask was vacuumed andrefilled with dry argon. 50 mL of anhydrous methyl sulfoxide was addedvia syringe. The reaction mixture was stirred and heated to 130° C. for20 hours. 50 mL of water was added to quench the reaction, and yellowsolid precipitated out. The pale-yellow solid was filtered, washed withwater (2×20 mL) and dried in air. This pale-yellow solid was purified byflash column chromatography (silica gel, ethyl acetate) to give apale-yellow solid product, 2.90 g, 90.3% yield. MS: 282.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 8.14 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.39-7.34 (m, 3H), 7.19(d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 7.13-7.03 (m, 3H), 6.62 (dd, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 3.89 (s,3H), 3.81 (s, 3H).

Example 7 Synthesis of4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (14q)

6-Methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (0.50 g, 1.78 mmol)was placed in a dry 250 mL single-necked round-bottomed flask fittedwith a stirring bar and septa. Acetonitrile (10 mL) was added via asyringe under argon atmosphere at room temperature. N-Bromosuccinimideor NBS (0.33 g, 1.87 mmol) was added portionwise under argon atmosphereat room temperature. The reaction mixture was allowed to stir at roomtemperature for 2 hours. 20 mL of saturated sodium bicarbonate solutionwas then added. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×10 mL).Organic layers were separated, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfateand concentrated under vacuum. The residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica gel, hexanes/EtOAc=2/3 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.55 g, 85.9% yield. MS: 360.4 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz): δ 8.14 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.39-7.34 (m, 3H), 7.19 (d, 1H, J=2.4Hz), 7.13-7.03 (m, 3H), 6.62 (dd, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 3.89 (s, 3H), 3.81 (s,3H).

Example 8 Synthesis of4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12b)

4-Bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (0.22 g, 0.61mmol) was placed in a dry 150 mL single-necked flask fitted with astirring bar and septa. Methylene chloride (30 mL) was added via asyringe. Boron tribromide (1.83 mL of 1.0 M methylene chloride solution)was added dropwise with stirring under argon atmosphere at roomtemperature. The reaction mixture was allowed to stir at roomtemperature for 20 hours. Then, 20 mL of water was added to quench thereaction. The mixture was extracted with 50 mL of ethyl acetate. Theorganic layer was separated, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate andconcentrated under vacuum. The residue was subjected to flash columnchromatography (silica gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.10 g, 49.4% yield. MS: 334.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz): δ 10.58 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s, 1H), 8.12 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.71 (s,1H), 7.22 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.09 (d, 1H, J=21. Hz), 7.04 (dd, 1H,J₁=8.7 Hz, J₂=2.4 Hz), 6.84 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz).

Example 9 Synthesis of6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one (14f)

4-Bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (0.60 g,1.81 mmol), tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (42 mg, 0.036 mmol),potassium carbonate (0.25 g, 1.81 mmol) and vinylboronic anhydridepyridine complex (0.22 g, 0.91 mmol) were placed in a dry and argonflushed 150 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a stirringbar and reflux condenser. Anhydrous 1,2-dimethoxyethane (10 mL) andwater (3 mL) were added via a syringe under argon atmosphere. Thereaction solution was stirred and heated to reflux for 4 hours. Thereaction was quenched by adding 20 mL of water at room temperature. Themixture was extracted with ethyl acetate/methanol (9/1 v/v) (2×20 mL).The extracts were combined, washed with brine (2×10 mL) and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄ followed by filtration and concentration to give ayellow residue. The yellow residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=19/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.44 g, 87.0% yield. M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS: m/z 280.0[M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.43 (s, 1H), 9.71 (s, 1H), 8.13(d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.41 (s, 1H), 7.24 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.10 (d, 1H,J=2.1 Hz), 7.01 (dd, 1H, J₁=8.7 Hz, J₂=2.1 Hz), 6.88 (dd, 1H, J₁=17.4Hz, J₂=10.8 Hz), 6.85 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 5.64 (dd, 1H, J₁=17.4 Hz,J₂=1.2 Hz), 5.26 (dd, 1H, J₁=10.8 Hz, J₂=1.2 Hz).

Example 10 Synthesis of6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile(14g)

4-Bromo-6-Methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (0.80 g,2.22 mmol), Zn(CN)₂ (0.40 g, 3.42 mmol),tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium (0.20 g, 0.22 mmol) and1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (0.49 g, 0.89 mmol) were placed ina dry and argon flushed 150 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fittedwith a stiffing bar and reflux condenser. Then, anhydrousdimethylformamide (30 mL) was added via a syringe under argonatmosphere. The reaction solution was stirred and heated to 100° C. for5 hours. Water (30 mL) was added to quench the reaction. The mixture wasextracted with ethyl acetate (2×20 mL). The extracts were combined,washed with brine (3×10 mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,EtOAc/hexanes=1/1 v/v) to give a pale-yellow solid product, 0.63 g,92.6% yield. M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS: m/z 307.0 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 8.48 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, 1H, J=9.0 Hz), 7.43 (d, 2H,J=8.7 Hz), 7.27 (dd, 1H, J₁=8.7 Hz, J₂=2.4 Hz), 7.08 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz),7.06 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 3.97 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H).

Example 11 Synthesis of6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitrile(14h)

6-Methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-isoquinoline-4-carbonitrile (0.45 g, 1.47mmol) was placed in a dry and argon flushed 150 mL single-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and an argon inlet. BBr₃(9.0 mL of 1.0M CH₂Cl₂ solution, 9.0 mmol) was added via a syringe withstirring at room temperature. After stirred at room temperature for 24hours, the reaction was quenched by adding 20 mL of water. The solutionwas stirred at room temperature for one hour, extracted with EtOAc (3×20mL). The organic layers were separated, combined and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. Theresidue was purified by column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.28 g, 68.5% yield.M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS: m/z 279.0 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz)δ 10.86 (s, 1H), 9.80 (s, 1H), 8.38 (s, 1H), 8.13 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz),7.25 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.09 (dd, 1H, J₁=8.7 Hz, J₂=2.4 Hz), 7.04 (d,1H, J=2.4 Hz), 6.85 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz).

Example 12 Synthesis of6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yltrifluoromethanesulfonate (14d)

8-Hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (2.10 g,7.06 mmol) was dissolved in 30 mL of anhydrous dimethylformide in a 250mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a magnetic stirringbar, an argon inlet and sealed with rubber stoppers. The solution wascooled to 0° C. in an ice-bath. Sodium hydride (0.37 g of 60% wt. inmineral oil, 9.18 mmol) was added in 4 portions under argon atmosphere.The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 minutes, than at roomtemperature for 30 minutes. After the solution was cooled to 0° C.again, N-phenyl-bis(trifluoromethanesulfonamide) (2.65 g, 7.41 mmol) wasadded in portions under argon protection. The reaction mixture wasstirred at 0° C. for 30 minutes and at room temperature for one hour.The reaction was quenched by adding 50 mL of saturated ammonia chloridesolution, and diluted with 50 mL of water. The solution was extractedwith ethyl acetate (3×50 mL). The organic layers were separated,combined, washed with brine, dried over anhydrous MgSO₄, filtered andconcentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by flashcolumn chromatography (silica gel, hexanes/EtOAc=1/1 v/v) to give awhite solid product, 2.85 g, 94.1% yield. M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS:m/z 452.1 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 7.52 (d, 1H, J=7.2 Hz),7.38 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 7.34 (d, 2H, J=9.0 Hz), 7.07 (d, 2H, J=9.0 Hz),7.02 (d, 1H, J=1.8 Hz), 6.72 (d, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 3.94 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s,3H).

Example 13 Synthesis of6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile(14i)

6-Methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin-8-yltrifluoromethanesulfonate (0.43 g, 1.00 mmol), Zn(CN)₂ (0.14 g, 1.20mmol), tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium (92 mg, 0.1 mmol) and1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (0.22 g, 0.40 mmol) were placed ina dry and argon flushed 150 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fittedwith a stiffing bar and reflux condenser. Then, anhydrousdimethylformide (20 mL) was added via a syringe under argon atmosphere.The reaction solution was stirred and heated to 100° C. for 4 hours.Water (20 mL) was added to quench the reaction. The mixture wasextracted with ethyl acetate (4×30 mL). The extracts were combined,washed with brine (3×10 mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,EtOAc/hexanes=3/2 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.23 g, 75.2%yield. M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS: m/z 307.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz) δ 7.63 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 7.54 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 7.51 (d, 1H,J=7.5 Hz), 7.38 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.06 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.71 (d, 1H,J=7.5 Hz), 3.95 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H).

Example 14 Synthesis of4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile(14j)

Compound6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile(0.22 g, 0.72 mmol) and N-bromosuccinimide (0.15 g, 0.86 mmol) wereplaced in a dry, argon flushed 150 mL single-necked flask fitted with astiffing bar and sealed with a rubber stopper. Acetonitrile (10 mL) wasadded via a syringe at room temperature under argon atmosphere. Afterthe mixture was stirred at room temperature for 4 hours, the solvent wasremoved under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, hexanes/EtOAc=2/3 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.23 g, 83.3% yield. M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS: m/z 387.1[M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 8.01 (s, 1H), 7.81 (d, 1H, J=2.4Hz), 7.43 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 7.42 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.07 (d, 2H, J=8.7Hz), 4.02 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H).

Example 15 Synthesis of4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile(14k)

4-Bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8-carbonitrile(0.15 g, 0.39 mmol) was placed in a dry and argon flushed 100 mLsingle-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar, refluxcondenser and an argon inlet. Anhydrous chlorobenzene (10 mL) was addedvia a syringe at room temperature. BBr₃ (0.59, 2.33 mmol) was added viaa syringe with stirring at room temperature. The resulting solution washeated to 120° C. for 4 hours. 10 mL of water was added to quench thereaction. After stirred at room temperature for one hour, the solutionwas extracted with EtOAc (5×20 mL). The organic layers were combined anddried over anhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reducedpressure. The residue was purified by column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.05 g, 36.0% yield.M.p. ° C. (decomposed). MS: m/z 357.1 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz)δ 11.40 (s, 1H), 9.79 (s, 1H), 7.91 (s, 1H), 7.48 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz),7.38 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 7.26 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz).

Example 16 Synthesis of4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12b)

4-Bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (14q) wasprepared as described above. 14q was placed in a dry 150 mLsingle-necked flask fitted with a stirring bar and septa. Chlorobenzene(30 mL) was added via a syringe. Boron tribromide (6 equivalents, neat)was added dropwise with stirring under argon atmosphere at roomtemperature. The reaction mixture was allowed to stir at roomtemperature for 20 hours. Then, 20 mL of water was added to quench thereaction. The mixture was extracted with 50 mL of ethyl acetate. Theorganic layer was separated, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate andconcentrated under vacuum. The residue was subjected to flash columnchromatography (silica gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.10 g, 49.4% yield. MS: 334.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz): δ 10.58 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s, 1H), 8.12 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.71 (s,1H), 7.22 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.09 (d, 1H, J=21. Hz), 7.04 (dd, 1H,J₁=8.7 Hz, J₂=2.4 Hz), 6.84 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz).

Example 17 Synthesis of4-bromo-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12c)

4-Bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (14q) wasprepared as described above. 14q was placed in a dry 150 mLsingle-necked flask fitted with a stirring bar and septa. Chlorobenzene(30 mL) was added via a syringe. Boron tribromide (3 equivalents, neat)was added dropwise with stirring under argon atmosphere at roomtemperature. The reaction mixture was allowed to stir at roomtemperature for 20 hours. Then, 20 mL of water was added to quench thereaction. The mixture was extracted with 50 mL of ethyl acetate. Theorganic layer was separated, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate andconcentrated under vacuum. The residue was subjected to flash columnchromatography (silica gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.10 g, 49.4% yield. MS: 334.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz): δ 10.58 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s, 1H), 8.12 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.71 (s,1H), 7.22 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.09 (d, 1H, J=21. Hz), 7.04 (dd, 1H,J₁=8.7 Hz, J₂=2.4 Hz), 6.84 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz).

Example 18 Synthesis of6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one

4-Bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (0.52 g,1.44 mmol), tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (83 mg, 0.07 mmol),potassium carbonate (0.22 g, 1.00 mmol) and phenylboronic acid (0.21 g,1.73 mmol) were placed in a dry and argon flushed 150 mL three-neckedround-bottomed flask fitted with a stirring bar and reflux condenser.1,2-Dimethoxyethane (10 mL) and water (3 mL) were added via a syringeunder argon atmosphere. The reaction solution was stirred and heated toreflux for 20 hours. The reaction was quenched by adding 30 mL of waterat room temperature. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×20mL). The extracts were combined, washed with brine (2×10 mL) and driedover anhydrous MgSO₄ and 2 g of3-(diethylenetriamino)propylfunctionalized silica gel followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,hexanes/ethyl acetate=2/3 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.50 g,98.0% yield. MS: m/z 358.3 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 8.30 (d,2H, J=9.0 Hz), 7.55-7.40 (m, 8H), 7.29 (s, 1H), 7.21 (dd, 1H, J₁=9.0 Hz,J₂=2.4 Hz), 7.05 (d, 2H, J=9.0 Hz), 6.94 (d, 1H, J=2.4 Hz), 3.81 (s,3H), 3.78 (s, 3H).

Example 19 Synthesis of6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one (15a)

6-Methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one (0.36 g,1.01 mmol) was placed in a dry 150 mL single-necked flask fitted with astirring bar and septa. Methylene chloride (30 mL) was added via asyringe. Boron tribromide (5.0 mL of 1.0 M methylene chloride solution)was added dropwise with stirring under argon atmosphere at roomtemperature. The reaction mixture was allowed to stir at roomtemperature for 16 hours. Then, 20 mL of water was added to quench thereaction. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×20 mL). Theorganic layers were separated, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfateand concentrated under vacuum. The residue was subjected to flash columnchromatography (silica gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.29 g, 87.9% yield. MS: 330.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz): δ 10.31 (s, 1H), 9.69 (s, 1H), 8.19 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.52-7.39(m, 5H), 7.28 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.00 (dd, 1H, J₁=8.7 Hz,J₂=2.4 Hz), 6.87-6.82 (m, 3H).

Example 20 Synthesis of 1-(2-(piperidin-1-yl)ethoxy)isoquinolin-6-ol(13a)

Synthesis of 6-methoxyisoquinoline-1-ol

A mixture of 17.82 g (0.10 mol) of trans-3-methoxycinnamic acid andthionyl chloride (14.28 g, 0.12 mol) were placed in a 250 mLsingle-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a stiffing bar and refluxcondenser. 80 mL of dry methylene chloride was added to the flask. Theresulted mixture was heated to reflux for 3 hours. Then, the solvent wasremoved under reduced pressure. The residue oil was dried under vacuumovernight. The pale-yellow solid acid chloride was dissolved in 20 mL of1,4-dioxane and added dropwise with stirring to a 0° C. suspension of19.50 g (0.30 mol) of sodium azide in 80 mL of 1,4-dioxane/water (1:1mixture). During the addition the temperature was maintained at 0° C.After complete addition of the acid chloride, the mixture was stirred at0° C. for an additional hour, then diluted with 75 mL of water. Themixture was extracted with methylene chloride (2×40 mL). The combinedextracts were dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate, filtered andconcentrated to ca. 100 mL. The solution was diluted with 20 mL ofphenyl ether and further concentrated to remove the remaining methylenechloride.

A 500 mL 3-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with an argon inlet,reflux condenser, additional funnel and an internal thermometer wascharged with 29 mL of tributylamine and 80 mL of phenyl ether. Thesolution was heated to 230° C., and the acyl azide in 20 mL of phenylether was added dropwise with stirring over 3 hours from an additionfunnel. During the addition, the reflux temperature gradually decreasedto 200° C. After, completion of the addition, the distillate wascollected in the addition funnel (15 mL of a 1:1 mixture oftributylamine/phenyl ether) until the temperature reached 230° C. Afterheating for an additional hour at 230° C., the mixture was cooled toroom temperature. The mixture was then poured to 500 mL of hexanes withstirring. The solid was filtered and washed with hexanes (2×100 mL). Thepale-yellow solid was recrystallized from ethyl acetate/methanol (9/1v/v) to give a pure pale-yellow crystalline material, 15.28 g, 87.2%yield. MS: 198.1 [M+Na]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz): δ 11.06 (s, 1H),8.08 (d, 1H, J=8.5 Hz), 7.14-7.14 (m, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H, J=2.5 Hz),7.05-7.03 (m, 1H), 7.04 (dd, 1H, J₁=9.0 Hz, J₂=2.5 Hz), 6.47 (d, 1H,J=7.0 Hz), 3.86 (s, 3H).

Synthesis of 6-methoxy-1-(2-(piperidin-1-yl)ethoxy)isoquinoline

To a solution of 6-methoxyisoquinoline-1-ol (1.00 g, 5.71 mmol) inacetone, K₂CO₃ (4.73 g, 34.26 mmol) and N-chloroethyl-piperidinehydrochloride salt (1.37 g, 7.42 mmol) were added. The solution washeated to reflux for 6 hours. The solution was evaporated to dryness.The residue was hydrolyzed by adding water, then extracted with ethylacetate. The organic layers were separated and dried over anhydrousMgSO₄. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. The residue waspurified by flash chromatography (silica-gel; methylenechloride/methanol=9/1 v/v) to give a yellow oil product, 1.50 g, 92.0%yield. MS: 287.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 8.11 (d, 1H, J=9.0Hz), 7.39 (d, 1H, J=7.5 Hz), 7.10-7.13 (m, 2H), 6.51 (d, 1H, J=7.5 Hz),4.02 (t, 2H, J=6.6 Hz), 3.86 (s, 3H), 2.55 (t, 2H, J=6.5 Hz), 2.41 (br,4H), 1.52-1.44 (m, 4H), 1.37-114 (m, 2H).

Synthesis of 1-(2-(piperidin-1-yl)ethoxy)isoquinolin-6-ol (13a)

6-Methoxy-1-(2-(piperidin-1-yl)ethoxy)isoquinoline (0.60 g, 2.10 mmol)was dissolved in 30 mL of dry CH₂Cl₂ at room temperature. BBr₃ (10.50mmol, 10.50 mL of 1.0 M CH₂Cl₂ solution) was added dropwise withstirring via a syringe at room temperature. The reaction solution wasallowed to stir overnight at room temperature. The mixture was cooled to0° C. in an ice bath and hydrolyzed by adding water. EtOAc was added topartition the solution. The organic layer was separated; the aqueouslayer was extracted with EtOAc twice. The organic layers were combined,washed with brine and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄. The solvent wasremoved under vacuum. The residue was purified by flash columnchromatography using silica-gel with CH₃OH/CH₂Cl₂ (1/9 v/v) to give awhite solid product, 40 g, 70.2% yield. MS: 273.2 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.29 (s, 1H), 8.05 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.32 (d, 1H,J=7.2 Hz), 6.93 (d, 1H, J=8.4 Hz), 6.87 (s, 1H), 6.43 (d, 1H, J=7.2 Hz),4.03 (s, br, 2H), 2.62 (s, br, 2H), 2.50 (s, br, 2H), 1.49-1.39 (m, 6H).

Example 21 In Vitro Characterization of Selected Compounds of theInvention

(A) Estrogen Receptor Binding Affinities, Agonist and AntagonistActivity of Some Embodiments of NRBAs of the Invention

Materials and Methods:

ER binding affinity was determined via one of the following methods:

Method 1:

Human recombinant estrogen receptor (ER) was expressed in insect Sf9cells and a radioactive competitive binding assay was performed usingtritiated estradiol. If the NRBAs tested showed a ≧≧50% inhibition of[³H] estradiol binding at 1 μM (1000 nM) concentration, the compoundswere assayed using four concentrations to determine IC₅₀ and K_(i)estimates.

Method 2:

Estrogen receptor (ER) binding affinity of the NRBAs was also determinedusing an in vitro competitive radioligand-binding assay with[³H]-estradiol ([³H]-E₂, PerkinElmer), a high affinity ligand for bothERα and ERβ. The equilibrium dissociation constant (K_(d)) of [³H]-E₂was determined by incubating increasing concentrations of [³H]-E₂ (0.01to 10 nM) with bacterially expressed ERα or ERβ ligand binding domain(LBD) at 4° C. for 18 hours (h). Non-specific binding was determined byadding 1000 nM E₂ to the incubation mixture. It was determined that theminimum concentration of [³H]-E₂ required to saturate ERα and ERβbinding sites in the incubation mixture was 1 nM, respectively. Thebinding affinity of the NRBAs was determined under identical conditionsby incubating increasing concentrations (3×10⁻² to 1,000 nM) of ligandwith isolated ER LBD and 1 nM [³H]-E₂. Following incubation, bound andfree [³H]-E₂ were separated by using vacuum filtration with theHarvester (PerkinElmer). Briefly, the incubation mixture was filteredthrough a high affinity protein binding filter, and washed several timesto remove any unbound radioactivity. The filter plate was air dried andsealed on the bottom. Scintillation cocktail was added to each well andthe top of the plate was sealed. Radioactivity was counted in a TopCountNXT Microplate Scintillation Counter.

Specific binding of [³H]-E₂ (B) at each concentration of NRBA wasobtained by subtracting the nonspecific binding of [³H]-E₂, andexpressed as a percentage of the specific binding of [³H]-E₂ in theabsence of the NRBA (B₀). The concentration of the NRBA that reduced thespecific binding of [³H]-E₂ by 50% (IC₅₀) was determined bycomputer-fitting the data by nonlinear regression analysis usingSigmaPlot (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Ill.) to the following equation:

B=B ₀*[1−C/(IC ₅₀ +C)]

-   -   where C is the concentration of SERM.

The equilibrium dissociation constant (K_(i)) of the NRBA was calculatedby:

K _(i) =K _(d) *IC ₅₀/(K _(d) +L)

-   -   where K_(d) is the equilibrium dissociation constant of [³H]-E₂        (ERα=0.65 nM, ERβ=1.83 nM), and L is the concentration of        [³H]-E₂ (1 nM).

Table 1 presents a series of NRBAs. Representative NRBAs are describedhereinbelow, whose activity under specific experimental conditions isprovided. It is to be understood that while the indicated compounds mayexhibit a particular activity (for example, compound 12b is an agonist)under the experimental conditions employed, as a function, in someembodiments of the particular cells utilized, etc., such compounds maypossess alternate or varied activity in different experimental settings.

COMPOUND # and IUPAC NAME PHYSICAL CHARACTERIZATION 12c white solid. 24%yield. M.p. 266.3-266.8° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,4-bromo-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)- 300 MHz) δ 9.78 (s, 1H), 8.20 (d, 1H, J =8.7 Hz), 7.79 (s, 1H), 6-methoxy-isoquinolin-1(2H)- 7.25 (d, 2H, J = 9.0Hz), 7.22 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 9.0 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz), one 6.85 (d, 2H, J = 8.7Hz). MS m/z 345 (M + H)⁺. 12d white solid. 79% yield. M.p. 254.3-254.6°C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 4-bromo-2-(3-fluoro-4- 300 MHz) δ 10.74 (s, 1H),10.20 (s, 1H), 8.13 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxy- 7.77(s, 1H), 7.36 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 11.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz), 7.11-6.99 (m,isoquinolin-1(2H)-one 4H). MS m/z 351 (M + H)⁺. 12e white solid. 83%yield. M.p. 250.4-250.9° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,4-bromo-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-6- 300 MHz) δ 10.76 (s, 1H), 8.14 (d, 1H, J =8.7 Hz), 7.71 (s, 1H), hydroxy-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one 7.56-7.51 (m, 2H),7.37-7.31 (m, 2H), 7.11 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.06 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz,J₂ = 2.4 Hz). MS m/z 336 (M + H)⁺. 12f white solid. 67% yield. M.p.288.6-289.6° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 4-chloro-6-hydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ10.72 (s, 1H), 9.74 (s, 1H), 8.13 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz),hydroxyphenyl)-isoquinolin- 7.67 (s, 1H), 7.23 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.11(d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 1(2H)-one 7.06 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.1 Hz),6.84 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz). MS m/z 288 (M + H)⁺. 12g white solid. 50%yield. M.p. 264.0-264.5° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 4-chloro-2-(3-fluoro-4- 300MHz) δ 10.75 (s, 1H), 10.20 (s, 1H), 8.14 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz),hydroxyphenyl)-6-hydroxy- 7.71 (s, 1H), 7.36 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 12.0 Hz, J₂ =2.4 Hz), 7.12-7.00 (m, isoquinolin-1(2H)-one 4H). MS m/z 304 (M + H)⁺.12h white solid. 80% yield. M.p. 249.3-249.8° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,6-hydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ 10.66 (s, 1H), 9.73 (s, 1H), 8.08 (d, 1H, J =8.4 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-4- 7.74 (s, 1H), 7.21 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),7.02-6.98 (m, 2H), 6.84 (d, iodoisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 2H, J = 8.7 Hz).MS m/z 378 (M − H)⁻. 12i white solid. 84% yield. M.p. 274.2-274.8° C. ¹HNMR (DMSO- 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(3- d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.74 (s, 1H), 9.80(s, 1H), 8.14 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-isoquinolin- 7.75 (s,1H), 7.32-7.27 (m, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.05 (dd, 1(2H)-one1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz), 6.86-6.83 (m, 3H). MS m/z 332 (M − H)⁻.12j white solid. 86% yield. M.p. 223.7-224.2° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,8-hydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ 13.02 (s, 1H), 9.80 (s, 1H), 7.34 (d, 1H, J =7.8 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy- 7.25 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.87 (d,2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.68 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), isoquinolin-1(2H)-one 6.66(d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 6.44 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 3.85 (s, 3H). MS m/z 282(M − H)⁻. 12k white solid. 89% yield. M.p. 254.7-255.2° C. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 5-bromo-8-hydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ 13.35 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s,1H), 7.50 (d, 1H, J = 7.8 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy- 7.27 (d, 2H, J= 8.7 Hz), 6.88 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.83 (d, 1H, J = 7.8 Hz),isoquinolin-1(2H)-one 6.75 (s, 1H), 3.96 (s, 3H). MS m/z 360 (M − H)⁻.12l white solid. 42% yield. M.p. 322.9-323.5° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.98 (s, 1H), 10.40 (s, 1H), 9.78(s, 1H), hydroxyphenyl)-isoquinolin- 7.27-7.21 (m, 3H), 6.86 (d, 2H, J =8.7 Hz), 6.57 (d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 6.43 (d, 1(2H)-one 1H, J = 2.4 Hz),6.27 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz). MS m/z 268 (M − H)⁻. 12m white solid. 52.6%yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 5-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- 13.17 (s,1H), 11.34 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s, 1H), 7.46 (d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz),hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 7.26 (d, 2H, J = 8.4 Hz), 6.87 (d, 2H, J =8.4 Hz), 6.79 (d, 1H, J = 7.8 Hz), 1(2H)-one 6.51 (s, 1 Hz). MS m/e347.5 (M − H)−. 12n pale-yellow solid. 76.7% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz) 2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)- δ 10.69 (s, 1H), 10.20 (s, 1H), 8.18(d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.78 (s, 1H), 6-hydroxy-4-iodoisoquinolin- 7.34(dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 1.8 Hz), 7.07-6.99 (m, 4H). MS m/e 1(2H)-one395.8 (M − H)−. 12o white solid. 87.5% yield. M.p. 243.5-244.0° C.(decomposed). ¹H 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.70(s, 1H), 9.63 (s, 1H), 8.12 (d, hydroxy-3- 1H, J = 8.4 Hz), 7.70 (s,1H), 7.13-7.02 (m, 4H), 6.85 (d, 1H, J = 8.4 Hz),methylphenyl)isoquinolin- 2.15 (s, 3H). MS m/e: 345.7 [M − H]⁻.1(2H)-one 12p yellow solid. 65.8% yield. M.p. 289.9-300.2° C.(decomposed). H 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8- NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 14.18(s, 1H), 10.69 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s, dihydroxy-isoquinoline-1(2H)- 1H), 7.55(d, 1H, J = 7.2 Hz), 7.13 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.00 (d, 1H, J = 7.2 Hz),thione 6.87 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.55 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 6.42 (d, 1H,J = 2.7 Hz). 12q white solid. 54.3% yield. M.p. 328.6-330.0° C.(decomposed). ¹H 8-hydroxy-2-(4- NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.89 (s, 1H),9.86 (s, 1H), 7.65 (d, hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-1- 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 7.29(d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.88 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-5- 6.79 (d, 1H, J = 7.8 Hz), 6.76 (s, 1H),4.00 (s, 3H). carbonitrile 12r yellow solid. 27.1% yield. M.p.238.7-240.1° C. (decomposed). ¹H 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz) δ 11.01 (s, 1H), 9.78 (s, 1H), 8.82 (d,hydroxyphenyl)isoquinoline- 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), 8.05 (s, 1H), 7.20-7.16 (m,4H), 6.85 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz). 1(2H)-thione 12s yellow solid. 21.2%yield. M.p. 316.8-318.2° C. (decomposed). ¹H2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)- NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 12.87 (s, 1H),10.33 (s, 2H), 6,8-dihydroxyisoquinolin- 7.39-7.34 (m, 1H), 7.28 (d, 1H,J = 7.2 Hz), 7.11-7.02 (m, 2H), 6.58 (d, 1(2H)-one 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 6.44(d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.28 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz). MS: m/e 285.8 [M − H]⁻.12t white solid. 76.3% yield. M.p. 204.2-205.0° C. (decomposed). ¹H2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)- NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 12.91 (s, 1H),10.27 (s, 1H), 8-hydroxy-6- 7.41-7.35 (m, 2H), 7.13-7.03 (m, 2H),6.69-6.65 (m, 2H), 6.44 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz),methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 3.85 (s, 3H). MS: m/z 324.2 [M + Na]⁺. 12uwhite solid. 67.7% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- 13.12 (s, 1H), 10.76 (s, 1H), 9.81 (s, 1H),7.75 (s, 1H), 7.27 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 6.86(d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.61 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.37 (d, 1H, 1(2H)-one J= 2.1 Hz). MS m/e 347.8 (M − H)⁻. 12v white solid. 27.7% yield. M.p.248.6-245.0° C. (decomposed). ¹H 4-bromo-8-hydroxy-2-(4- NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz) δ 13.20 (s, 1H), 9.83 (s, 1H), 7.82 (s, hydroxyphenyl)-6- 1H),7.29 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.66 (d, 1H,methoxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one J = 2.1 Hz), 6.60 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 3.90(s, 3H). MS: m/e 361.8 [M − H]⁻. 12y white solid. 49.4% yield. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 4-chloro-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- 13.09 (s, 1H), 10.77(s, 1H), 9.81 (s, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.27 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 6.85 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.62 (d, 1H, J =2.1 Hz), 6.38 (d, 1H, 1(2H)-one J = 2.1 Hz). MS m/e 301.8 (M − H)⁻. 12zwhite solid. 48.2% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(3- 13.02 (s, 1H), 10.78 (s, 1H), 10.27 (s, 1H),7.79 (s, 1H), 7.41 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 11.7 Hz, fluoro-4- J₂ = 2.4 Hz),7.16-7.01 (m, 2H), 6.61 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-6.38 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz). MS m/e 363.9 (M − H)⁻. 1(2H)-one 14a whitesolid. 49.4% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ4,5-dibromo-2-(3,5-dibromo-4- 11.49 (s, 1H), 10.30 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, 1H,J = 8.7 Hz), 7.86 (s, 1H), 7.76 (s, hydroxyphenyl)-6- 2H), 7.25 (d, 1H,J = 8.7 Hz). MS: m/z 567.0 [M − H]⁻. hydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 14bwhite solid. 47.6% yield. Mp. 330.0-332.1° C. (decomposed). ¹H6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.09 (s, 1H), 11.23 (s,1H), 9.81 (s, hydroxyphenyl)-5- 1H), 7.46 (d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 7.25 (d,2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.87 (d, 2H, (trifluoromethylsulfonyl)isoquinolin- J =8.7 Hz), 6.79 (d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 6.51 (s, 1H). 1(2H)-one 14c whitesolid. 10.5% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)-6-10.42 (s, 1H), 9.72 (s, 1H), 8.14 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.34 (s, 1H),hydroxy-2-(4- 7.24-7.21 (m, 3H), 7.00 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4Hz), 6.89 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 4.66 (t, 1H, J= 5.7 Hz), 2.82 (d, 2H, J = 5.7 Hz). MS: 1(2H)-one m/z 277.8 [M −2HBr]−. 14d white solid. 94.1% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ6-methoxy-2-(4- 7.52 (d, 1H, J = 7.2 Hz), 7.38 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 7.34(d, 2H, J = 9.0 Hz), methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.07 (d, 2H, J = 9.0 Hz),7.02 (d, 1H, J = 1.8 Hz), 6.72 (d, 1H, dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl J = 7.5Hz), 3.94 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H). MS: m/z 452.1 [M + Na]⁺.trifluoromethanesulfonate 14e white solid. 45.6% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz) δ 4,5-dibromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2- 14.06 (s, 1H), 11.64 (s, 1H),9.83 (s, 1H), 7.83 (s, 1H), 7.28 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 6.87 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.86 (s, 1H).MS: m/z 428.0 [M + H]⁺. 1(2H)-one 14f white solid. 87.0% yield. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 6-hydroxy-2-(4- 10.43 (s, 1H), 9.71 (s, 1H), 8.13(d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.41 (s, 1H), 7.24 (d, hydroxyphenyl)-4- 2H, J =8.7 Hz), 7.10 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.01 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz,vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one J₂ = 2.1 Hz), 6.88 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.4 Hz, J₂= 10.8 Hz), 6.85 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 5.64 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.4 Hz, J₂ =1.2 Hz), 5.26 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 10.8 Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz). MS: m/z 280.0 [M +H]⁺. 14g white solid. 92.6% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ6-methoxy-2-(4- 8.41 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, 1H, J = 9.0 Hz), 7.43 (d, 2H, J =8.7 Hz), 7.27 (dd, methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4Hz), 7.08 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 7.06 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),dihydroisoquinoline-4- 3.97 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H). MS: m/z 307.0 [M +H]⁺. carbonitrile 14h white solid. 68.5% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz) δ 6-hydroxy-2-(4- 10.86 (s, 1H), 9.80 (s, 1H), 8.38 (s, 1H), 8.13(d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.25 (d, hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),7.09 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz), 7.04 (d, 1H,dihydroisoquinoline-4- J = 2.4 Hz), 6.85 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz). MS: m/z279.0 [M + H]⁺. carbonitrile 14i white solid. 75.2% yield. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 7.63 (d, 6-methoxy-2-(4- 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.54 (d,1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.51 (d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-7.38 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.06 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.71 (d, 1H, J = 7.5Hz), dihydroisoquinoline-8- 3.95 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H). MS: m/z 307.2[M + H]⁺. carbonitrile 14j white solid. 83.3% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz) δ 4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4- 8.01 (s, 1H), 7.81 (d, 1H, J = 2.4Hz), 7.43 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 7.42 (d, methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 2H, J= 8.7 Hz), 7.07 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 4.02 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H).dihydroisoquinoline-8- MS: m/z 387.1 [M + H]⁺. carbonitrile 14kpale-yellow solid. 36.0% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- 11.40 (s, 1H), 9.79 (s, 1H), 7.91 (s, 1H), 7.48(d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.38 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz),7.26 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz).dihydroisoquinoline-8- MS: m/z 357.1 [M + H]⁺. carbonitrile 14lpale-yellow solid. 75.3% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- 13.22 (s, 1H), 10.48 (s, 1H), 9.79 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s,1H), 7.28 (d, 2H, hydroxyphenyl)-4- J = 8.7 Hz), 6.87 (d, 2H, J = 8.7Hz), 6.81 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.1 Hz, J₂ = 10.8 Hz),vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 6.57 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.33 (d, 1H, J =2.1 Hz), 5.66 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.1 Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz), 5.30 (dd, 1H, J₁ =10.8 Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz). MS: m/e 293.9 [M − H]⁻. 14m pale-yellow solid.72.7% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- 12.43 (s,1H), 10.92 (s, 1H), 9.86 (s, 1H), 8.37 (s, 1H), 7.29 (d, 2H,hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- J = 8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.57(d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), dihydroisoquinoline-4- 6.40 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz).MS: m/z 307.0 [M + Na]⁺. carbonitrile or 4-cyano-6,8- dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 1(2H)-one 14n white solid. 46.1% yield. ¹HNMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 6-hydroxy-2-(4- 11.04 (s, 1H), 9.75 (s, 1H),7.43 (d, 1H, J = 7.2 Hz), 7.37 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz),hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.23 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.24 (s, 1H), 6.86(d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), dihydroisoquinoline-8- 6.62 (d, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz).MS: m/z 279.0 [M + H]⁺. carbonitrile 14o yellow solid. 78.1% yield. ¹HNMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 6-hydroxy-2-(4- 11.12 (s, 1H), 9.76 (s, 1H),7.54 (s, 1H), 7.43 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 7.37 (d,hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-4-vinyl- 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 7.27 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),6.94-6.84 (m, 3H), 1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8- 5.68 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.1Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz), 5.31 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 11.1 Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz). carbonitrileMS: m/z 305.0 [M + H]⁺. 14p yellow solid. 54.5% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,300 MHz) δ 4-chloro-6-hydroxy-2-(4- 11.42 (s, 1H), 9.79 (s, 1H), 7.86(s, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.39 (d, hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 7.26 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz).dihydroisoquinoline-8- MS: m/z 318.8 [M − H]⁻. carbonitrile 14q whitesolid. 85.9% yield. Mp. 153.8-154.3° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-4-bromo-6-methoxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz) δ 8.14 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz),7.39-7.34 (m, 3H), methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 7.19 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz),7.13-7.03 (m, 3H), 6.62 (dd, 1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 1(2H)-one 3.89 (s, 3H),3.81 (s, 3H). MS: 360.4 [M + H]+. 14r white solid. 92.6% yield. Mp.204.8° C. (decomposed). ¹H NMR 6-methoxy-2-(4- (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 8.48(s, 1H), 8.22 (d, 1H, J = 9.0 Hz), methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.43 (d,2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.27 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz), 7.08 (d,dihydroisoquinoline-4- 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 7.06 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 3.97(s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H). carbonitrile MS: m/z 307.0 [M + H]+. 14s whitesolid. 83.7% yield. Mp. 154.5-155.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆,8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ 12.98 (s, 1H), 7.42-7.35 (m, 3H),7.06 (d, 2H, J = 9.0 Hz), methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 6.70-6.67 (m, 2H),6.45 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 3.85 (s, 3H), 1(2H)-one 3.82 (s, 3H). 14twhite solid. 78.7% yield. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 7.97 (s,4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4- 1H), 7.39 (d, 2H, J = 9.0 Hz), 7.33 (d, 1H, J =2.4 Hz), 7.21 (s, 1H), methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.07 (d, 2H, J = 9.0Hz), 4.02 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H). MS: m/z dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl 464.0[M + H]+. trifluoromethanesulfonate 14u white solid. 69.7% yield. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4- 7.95 (s, 1H), 7.80 (d, 1H,J = 2.5 Hz), 7.46 (d, 1H, J = 2.5 Hz), 7.42 (d,methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 2H, J = 8.5 Hz), 7.07 (d, 2H, J = 8.5 Hz),4.02 (s, 3H), 3.83 (s, 3H). dihydroisoquinoline-8- MS: m/z 341.2 [M +H]+. carbonitrile 14v white solid (mp decomposed). Yield = 87%. ¹H NMR(DMSO-d₆, isoquinoline-1,6-diol 300 MHz): δ 10.90 (bs, 1H), 10.21 (s,1H), 8.01 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.05 (dd, J = 6.9, 5.7 Hz, 1H), 6.89 (m,2 H), 6.35 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 1H). MS (ESI) m/z 161.9 [M + H]⁺, 184.0 [M +Na]⁺ 14w brown solid. (mp decomposed). Yield = 32%. ¹H NMR (DMSO-6-hydroxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz): δ 10.35 (s, 1H), 8.07 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, 1H),7.33 (m, methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 3H), 7.06-6.92 (m, 4H), 6.52 (d, J =7.5 Hz, 1H), 3.81 (s, 3H). MS 1(2H)-one (ESI) m/z 268.0 [M + H]⁺, 290.0[M + Na]⁺ 14xME white solid (mp decomposed). Yield = 42%. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃,500 MHz): 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- δ 10.72 (s, 1H), 8.14 (d, J = 5.4 Hz,1H), 7.53 (s, 1H), methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin- 7.38 (d, J = 5.4 Hz, 2H),7.10 (d, J = 1.2 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (m, 1H), 7.04 (d, 1(2H)-one J = 5.4 Hz,2H), 3.81 (s, 3H). MS (ESI) m/z 345.8 [M − H]⁻. 14xAC white solid. M.p.;200-201° C. Yield = 86%. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz):4-(6-acetoxy-4-bromo-1- δ 8.52 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, 1H), 7.61 (d, J = 2.1 Hz,1H), 7.52 (s, oxoisoquinolin-2(1H)- 1H), 7.45 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, 2H), 7.33(dd, J = 8.7, 2.1 Hz, 1H), yl)phenyl acetate 7.25 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, 2H),2.40 (s, 3H), 2.25 (s, 3H). Mass (ESI, positive) m/z 440.1 [M + Na]⁺. MS(ESI) m/z 440.1 [M + Na]⁺. 14xME_AC white solid (mp; 189-190° C.). Yield= 87%. ¹H NMR CDCl₃, 300 MHz): 4-(4-bromo-6-methoxy-1- δ 8.42 (d, J =9.0 Hz, 1H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.46 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, oxoisoquinolin-2(1H)-2H), 7.25 (d, J = 8.7 Hz, 2H), 7.24 (d, J = 2.4 Hz, 1H), 7.15 (dd, J =9.0, yl)phenyl acetate 2.4 Hz, 1H), 4.00 (s, 3H), 2.36 (s, 3H). MS (ESI)m/z 389.0 [M + H]⁺, 412.1 [M + Na]⁺. 14yAM off-white solid. mp >300° C.¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d₃) δ 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- 10.84 (s, 1H, OH),9.74 (s, 1H, OH), 7.77 (s, 1H, ArH), 7.41 (s, 1H,hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- OH or NH), 7.20-7.17 (m, 2H, ArH), 7.13 (s,1H, OH or NH), dihydroisoquinoline-8- 7.11 (d, J = 2.4 Hz, 1H, ArH),6.86-6.83 (m, 2H, ArH), 6.80 (d, J = 2.4 Hz, carbimidic acid 1H, ArH).,2H, ArH), 6.80 (d, J = 2.4 Hz, 1H, ArH). Mass (ESI, positive) m/z 397.0[M + Na]⁺. 14yME white solid. mp 296° C. (decomposition). ¹H NMR (300MHz, methyl 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2- DMSO-d₃) δ 11.10 (s, 1H, OH), 9.76 (s,1H, OH), 7.81 (s, 1H, (4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- ArH), 7.27-7.19 (m,2H, ArH), 7.20 (d, J = 2.4 Hz, 1H, ArH), dihydroisoquinoline-8- 6.93 (d,J = 2.4 Hz, 1H, ArH), 6.87-6.83 (m, 2H, ArH), 3.72 (s, 3H, carboxylateOCH₃). Mass (ESI, positive) m/z 390.2 [M + H]⁺; Mass (ESI, negative) m/z387.8 [M − H]⁻. 14z 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinoline-8- carboxylic acid 15a white solid. 87.9% yield.M.p. 296.9-297.5° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 6-hydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ 10.31(s, 1H), 9.69 (s, 1H), 8.19 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-4-7.52-7.39 (m, 5H), 7.28 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.00 (dd,phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz), 6.87-6.82 (m,3H). MS: 330.2 [M + H]⁺. 15b white solid. 72.5% yield. M.p. 295.1-296.0°C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- 6-hydroxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.28 (s, 1H), 9.68 (s,1H), 8.18 (d, 1H, J = 8.7 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-4-(4- 7.38 (d, 2H, J = 9.0Hz), 7.27 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.13 (s, 1H), methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-7.04 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.99 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 8.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz),1(2H)-one: 6.87-6.82 (m, 3H), 3.81 (s, 3H). MS: 360.1 [M + H]⁺. 15cwhite solid. 67.6% yield. M.p. 221.9-223.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)- d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.12 (s, 1H), 10.51 (s,1H), 10.24 (s, 1H), 6,8-dihydroxy-4- 7.44-7.40 (m, 2H), 7.17-7.03 (m,2H), 6.80 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.1 Hz, J₂ = 10.8 Hz),vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 6.57 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.34 (d, 1H, J =2.1 Hz), 5.67 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.1 Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz), 5.30 (dd, 1H, J₁ =10.8 Hz, J₂ = 1.2 Hz). MS: 311.9 [M − H]⁻. 15d white solid. 63.4% yield.M.p. 280.8-282.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- 2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)- d₆, 300MHz) δ 12.35 (s, 1H), 10.94 (s, 1H), 10.33 (s, 1H), 8.39 (s,6,8-dihydroxy-1-oxo-1,2- 1H), 7.44 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 11.7 Hz, J₂ = 2.4 Hz),7.18-7.03 (m, 2H), dihydroisoquinoline-4- 6.57 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.41(d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz). MS: 310.9 [M − H]⁻. carbonitrile 15e white solid.36.5% yield. M.p. >240.0° C. (decomposed). ¹H 6-hydroxy-2-(4- NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.33 (s, 1H), 9.66 (s, 1H), 7.79 (dd,hydroxyphenyl)-8- 1H, J₁ = 17.4 Hz, J₂ = 10.8 Hz), 7.25 (d, 1H, J = 7.5Hz), 7.15 (d, vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.97 (d, 1H, J= 2.1 Hz), 6.88 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.83 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 6.46 (d,1H, J = 7.5 Hz), 5.44 (dd, 1H, J₁ = 17.4 Hz, J₂ = 1.8 Hz), 5.19 (dd, 1H,J₁ = 10.8 Hz, J₂ = 1.8 Hz). MS: 277.9 [M − H]⁻. 15f white solid. 54.5%yield. M.p. >188.0° C. (decomposed). ¹H 4-bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4- NMR(DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.71 (s, 1H), 9.71 (s, 1H), 7.89 (dd,hydroxyphenyl)-8- 1H, J₁ = 17.4 Hz, J₂ = 10.5 Hz), 7.72 (s, 1H), 7.19(d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 7.12 (d, 1H, J = 2.4Hz), 7.03 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), 6.83 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 5.47 (dd, 1H,J₁ = 10.5 Hz, J₂ = 1.5 Hz). MS: 355.9 [M − H]⁻. 15g white solid. 83.3%yield. M.p. 141.3-142.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- 6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- d₆, 300MHz): δ 10.32 (s, 1H), 10.33 (s, 1H), 9.76 (s, 1H), 7.36 (d,hydroxyphenyl)-4-(4- 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.30 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.11 (s,1H), 7.04 (d, 2H, methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin- J = 8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J= 8.7 Hz), 6.32 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 1(2H)-one 6.30 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz),3.80 (s, 3H). MS: 373.9 [M − H]⁻. 15h white solid. 89.9% yield. M.p.133.2-134.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- 6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz): δ 10.30(s, 1H), 10.35 (s, 1H), 9.76 (s, 1H), hydroxyphenyl)-4- 7.52-7.39 (m,5H), 7.31 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.16 (s, 1H), 6.86 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz),phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one 6.32 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.31 (d, 1H, J =2.1 Hz). MS: 343.9 [M − H]⁻. 15i white solid. 78.7% yield. M.p.206.9-207.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- (E)-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz) δ13.26 (s, 1H), 10.42 (s, 1H), 9.77 (s, 1H), 7.26 (d,hydroxyphenyl)-4-(prop-1- 2H, J = 8.5 Hz), 7.24 (s, 1H), 6.86 (d, 2H, J= 8.5 Hz), 6.55 (d, 1H, enyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one J = 2.0 Hz), 6.45 (d,1H, J = 15.0 Hz), 6.31 (d, 1H, J = 2.0 Hz), 6.10-6.03 (m, 1H), 1.83 (d,3H, J = 6.5 Hz). MS: 310.0 [M + H]⁺. 15j white solid. 76.4% yield. M.p.160.2-160.7° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- (E)-ethyl 3-(8-hydroxy-6- d₆, 300 MHz) δ13.09 (s, 1H), 7.97 (s, 1H), 7.85 (d, 1H, J = 15.9 Hz),methoxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)- 7.46 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), 7.07 (d, 2H, J =8.7 Hz), 6.74 (d, 1H, 1-oxo-1,2-dihydroisoquinolin- J = 2.4 Hz), 6.60(d, 1H, J = 11.4 Hz), 6.56 (d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 4-yl)acrylate 4.18 (q,2H, J = 7.2 Hz), 3.91 (s, 3H), 3.83 (s, 3H), 1.25 (t, 3H, J = 7.2 Hz).MS: 396.1 [M + H]⁺. 15k yellow solid. 74.9% yield. M.p. >350.0° C. ¹HNMR (DMSO-d₆, (E)-3-(6-hydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ 8.11 (d, 1H, J = 9.0Hz), 7.66 (d, 1H, J = 15.5 Hz), hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.65 (s, 1H),7.31 (s, 1H), 7.24 (d, 2H, J = 9.0 Hz), 6.98 (d, 1H, J = 8.5 Hz),dihydroisoquinolin-4-yl)acrylic 6.85 (d, 2H, J = 8.5 Hz), 6.36 (d, 1H, J= 16.0 Hz). MS: acid 321.9 [M − H]⁻. 15l yellow solid. 33.3% yield.M.p. >350.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, (E)-3-(6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4- 300 MHz) δ13.09 (s, 1H), 9.86 (s, 1H), 8.59 (s, 1H), 7.73 (s, 1H),hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.60 (d, 1H, J = 15.9 Hz), 7.29 (d, 2H, J =9.0 Hz), 6.87 (d, 2H, J = 8.7 Hz), dihydroisoquinolin-4-yl)acrylic 6.70(d, 1H, J = 2.1 Hz), 6.40 (d, 1H, J = 15.6 Hz), acid 6.34 (d, 1H, J =2.1 Hz). MS: 337.9 [M − H]⁻. 15m white solid. 94.9% yield. M.p.195.4-196.0° C. ¹H NMR (DMSO- 4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-(4- d₆, 300 MHz) δ8.26 (d, 2H, J = 8.1 Hz), 7.94 (d, 2H, J = 8.4 Hz),methoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-1,2- 7.85 (d, 2H, J = 9.0 Hz), 7.23 (d, 1H, J = 2.4Hz), 7.21 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz), dihydroisoquinolin-8-yl 4- 6.97 (d, 2H, J= 9.0 Hz), 3.99 (s, 3H), 3.76 (s, 3H). MS: (trifluoromethyl)benzoate526.2 [M + Na]⁺.

-   -   Representative examples of the NRBAs of this invention and their        activity under the indicated conditions are as follows:

Table 2 presents competitive inhibition of the respective estrogenreceptors by some embodiments of NRBAs of the invention. Recombinant ERαor ERβ ligand binding domain was incubated with [³H]-estradiol andincreasing concentration of some embodiments of the NRBAs of thisinvention, ranging in concentration from 10⁻¹¹ to 10⁻⁴ M. Followingincubation, plates were harvested onto GF/B filters and radioactivitywas measured with a TopCount NXT (PerkinElmer). Nonspecific binding wassubtracted from total binding to yield specific binding. The percentinhibition of [³H]-estradiol at 100 nM of compound is as follows:

TABLE 2 Percent Inhibition of [³H]-Estradiol Binding to ERα and ERβ byNRBAs Compound ER-α ER-β 12b 0 53.6 12d 0 38.7 12f 0 47.5 12g 0 29.4 12h7.7 40.5 12l 2.5 34.4 12m 5.2 0 12n 6.2 8.7 12p 25.8 80.7 12r 35.7 75.512s 4.5 52.8 12u 61.3 96.7 12y 51.9 97.5 12z 52.8 95.3Table 3 describes binding constants (K_(i) values) for ER-α and ER-βwith respect to some embodiments of NRBAs of this invention

TABLE 3 Binding constants (K_(i) values) for ER-α and ER-β NRBAs. ER-αbinding ER-β binding Compound constant (nM) constant (nM) 12b 998 49 12u32 3 12z 40 3 14l 76 6 14m 94 7 14k >394 46 15a 1778 130 15b 2097 25215c 205 3.96 15g 70.0 0.48 15h 124 3.03 15i 102 1.66

The NRBAs of Table 3 inhibited Cyp 3A and/or Cyp 2C9 at very lowconcentrations, with the exception of 12b [data not shown].

(B) Effects of NRBA on ER-α and ER-β Transactivation

COS or 293 cells were plated in DME without phenol red+10% cs FBS at90,000 cells per well in 24 well plates, and were transfected with 0.25μg of the vector “ERE-LUC”, where a firefly luciferase gene was drivenby two estrogen responsive elements and 0.02 μg of the control CMV-LUC,Renilla where a luciferase gene was driven by a CMV promoter. Also 25 ngof ER-α), 50 ng of ER-β or 12.5 ng of AR were introduced bylipofectamine. All the receptors were cloned from rat tissue into thePCR3.1 vector backbone. Twenty four hours post transfection, cells weretreated with compounds of this invention, estrogen, DHT, and other NRBAsor combinations thereof. Cells were harvested 48 hrs after transfection,and assayed for firefly and Renilla luciferase activity.

Representative examples of the NRBAs of this invention and theiractivity under the indicated conditions were as follows

-   -   ER-α agonists: 12y (ER-α: K_(i)=36 nM; 12u (ER-α: K_(i)=32 nM; %        activity of 100 nM 12u compared to 1 nM estradiol=62%).    -   ER-β agonists: 12b (ER-β: K_(i)=49 nM; % activity of 100 nM 12b        compared to 1 nM estradiol=79%), 12p (ER-β: K_(i)=17 nM; %        activity of 100 nM 12p compared to 1 nM estradiol=85%).

Representative Table 4 below has the % estradiol activity at 100 nM ofNRBA for representative examples of the NRBAs of this invention andtheir % estradiol activity at 100 nM.

TABLE 4 Estradiol activity at 100 nM of representative NRBAs (in %).Compound ER-α ER-β 12b 31.2 78.8 12p 45 85 12q 25 10 12s 29 76.9 12u 6285 12v 17 10 14l 50 52.7 14m 49 74.5

The compounds 12b, 12f, 12h, 12p, 12s, 12u, 12y and 12z were found topossess ER-β agonist activity. The binding affinity of the compounds ispresented in FIG. 1.

Table 5 below shows the ratio between the binding constants of ER-α andER-β for representative examples of these agonists.

TABLE 5 Ratio between the binding constants of ER-α and ER-β forrepresentative NRBAs. K_(i) Ratio Compound (ER-α/ER-β) Estradiol 0.1312b 20 12f 61 12h 22 12p 8 12s 25 12u 17 12y 11 12z 12 15a 13.7 15b 8.315c 51.7 15g 145.8 15h 41.1 15i 61.4

As an example, the in vitro activation of ER-α and ER-β of 12l compoundcompared to estradiol using 0.1, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 nM doses wasevaluated (FIG. 2) and the data is presented in Table 6 below.

TABLE 6 In vitro activation of ER-α and ER-β by 12l compound compared toestradiol using 0.1, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 nM doses. ER-α RLU/RenRLU ER-βRLU/RenRLU Doses (nM) of 12l 0.1 0.07 0.06 1 0.07 0.07 10 0.07 0.16 1000.12 0.46 1000 0.24 0.55 Doses of estradiol (nM) 1 0.29 0.48

Example 22A In Vitro Characterization of 14m and 12u

Ligand Binding Assay

Recombinant ER-α or ER-β ligand binding domain (LBD) was combined with[³H]E₂ (PerkinElmer, Waltham, Mass.) in buffer A (10 mM Tris, pH 7.4,1.5 mM disodium EDTA, 0.25 M sucrose, 10 mM sodium molybdate, 1 mM PMSF)to determine the equilibrium dissociation constant (K_(d)) of [³H]E₂.Protein was incubated with increasing concentrations of [³H]E₂ with andwithout a high concentration of unlabeled E₂ at 4° C. for 18 h in orderto determine total and non-specific binding. Non-specific binding wasthen subtracted from total binding to determine specific binding. Ligandbinding curves were analyzed by nonlinear regression with one sitesaturation to determine the K_(d) of E₂ (ER-α: 0.65 nM; ER-β: 1.83 nM).In addition, the concentration of [³H]E₂ required to saturate ER-α andER-β LBD was determined to be 1-3 nM.

Increasing concentrations of two β-SERMs (14m and 12u) (range: 10⁻¹¹ to10⁻⁶ M) were incubated with [³H]E₂ (1-2 nM) and ER LBD using theconditions described above. Following incubation, plates were harvestedwith GF/B filters on the Unifilter-96 Harvester (PerkinElmer) and washedthree times with ice-cold buffer B (50 mM Tris, pH 7.2). The filterplates were dried at room temperature, then Microscint-O cocktail wasadded to each well and the filter plates were sealed with TopSeal-A.Radioactivity was counted in a TopCount® NXT Microplate ScintillationCounter using the settings for [³H] in Microscint cocktail(PerkinElmer).

The specific binding of [³H]E₂ at each concentration of compound wasdetermined by subtracting the nonspecific binding of [³H]E₂ (determinedby incubating with 10⁻⁶ M unlabeled E₂) and expressing it as apercentage of the specific binding in the absence of compound. Theconcentration of compound that reduced the specific binding of [³H]E₂ by50% (IC₅₀) was determined by computer-fitting the data with SigmaPlotand non-linear regression with the four parameter logistic curve. Theequilibrium binding constant (K_(i)) of each compound was thencalculated by: K_(i)=K_(d)×IC₅₀/(K_(d)+L), where K_(d) is theequilibrium dissociation constant of [³H]E₂, and L is the concentrationof [³H]E₂.

Transient Transfection and Reporter Gene Assay

Human estrogen receptors (ER-α and ER-β) were cloned from prostate cDNAinto a pCR3.1 plasmid vector backbone. PGC-1 was cloned into mammaliantwo hybrid vector pACT. ER-β H475 was mutated to alanine usingsite-directed mutagenesis. Sequencing was performed to determine theabsence of any non specific mutations. SHP promoter (−572 to +10) (26)was cloned into pGL3 basic LUC reporter vector and human FXR was clonedinto pCR3.1. HEK-293 cells were plated at 100,000 cells per well of a 24well plate in Dulbecco's Minimal Essential Media (DMEM)+5%charcoal-stripped fetal bovine serum (csFBS). The cells were transfectedusing Lipofectamine (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) with 0.25 μg ERE-LUC,0.02 μg CMV-LUC (renilla luciferase) and 12.5 ng of rat ER-α or 25 ngrat ER-β. The cells were treated 24 hrs after transfection with variousconcentrations of SERMs or a combination of SERMs and estradiol todetermine the antagonistic activity. Luciferase assays were performed 48hrs after transfection.

Ishikawa Growth Assay

Ishikawa cells were plated at 15,000 cells/well in 24 well plates inDME:F12 (1:1)+5% csFBS w/o phenol red. The cells were maintained in thismedium at 37° C. for 3 days. Medium was changed immediately prior todrug treatment for an additional 72 hrs. After 72 hrs, the cells werefixed with formalin and the amount of alkaline phosphatase (ALP)measured by para-nitrophenyl phosphate method.

Results

In Vitro Characterization of 14m and 12u

Two β-SERMs were selected from a library of isoform selective SERMs(FIG. 3A). 14m(4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one) and 12u(4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one) boundER-β with high affinity with K_(i) values of 5.35 and 2.11 nMrespectively, which were comparable to the binding by E₂ (FIG. 3B).However, 14m and 12u bound to ER-α with much lower affinity thanestradiol, with K_(i) values of 94 and 40 nM, respectively (FIG. 3B). Assuch, 14m and 12u bound to ER-β with almost 100-fold selectivitycompared to ER-α (FIG. 3B).

To determine if the selectivity in ER binding also translated intoER-β-selective activity, transient transactivation assays were performedin HEK-293 cells transfected with plasmids encoding ER-α or ER-β andERE-LUC. The cells were treated with varying concentrations of theligands and their EC₅₀ values were determined. Both, 14m and 12ufunctioned as agonists to both ER-α and ER-β with a selectivity of 20-30fold towards ER-β and with EC₅₀ of less than 10 nM (FIG. 3B).

Since members of the NHR superfamily have moderately homologous LBDs,transactivation assays were performed to determine the cross reactivitywith 13 other NHR (receptors for progesterone, mineralocorticoids,androgens, glucocorticoids, FXR, PXR, liver X receptor (LXR), retinoid Xreceptor (RXR), PPAR-α, PPAR-γ and ERR-α, ERR-β and ERR-γ). 14m and 12udid not cross react with any of the above mentioned receptors even atconcentrations as high as 10 μM (data not shown).

Activation of ER-α, but not ER-β, induces uterine proliferation [MoraniA et al 2008 J Intern Med 264:128-42]. This effect is one potentialconcern in the development of ER-α SERMs. As such, the ability of 14mand 12u to stimulate in vitro growth of Ishikawa endometrial cells wasexamined using varying concentrations of the ligands and an ALP assay.As shown in FIG. 3C, 14m and 12u induced the proliferation of Ishikawacells only at the highest concentration tested (1 μM) or theconcentration at which they cross react with ER-α. On the other hand, E₂promoted the proliferation of the cells at very low concentrations(i.e., 0.1 nM).

Example 22B In Vivo Characterization of 14m and 12u

Uterotropic Assay

Sprague Dawley rats of 18-20 days age were randomized based on bodyweight into groups of 7 animals and treated with vehicle, 50 μg/kg/dayestradiol subcutaneously (s.c), 10 mg/kg/day tamoxifen orally, or 30mg/kg/day 14m or 12u s.c. Body weight (BW) was recorded at pretreatment(Day 0) and before necropsy (Day 4). Statistical differences amonggroups were evaluated by one-way ANOVA. Rats were treated for 3consecutive days and then sacrificed 24 h after the last dose. The bodyof the uterus was cut just above its junction with the cervix and at thejunction of the uterine horns with the ovaries. The uterus was weighedwith and without intrauterine fluid. Statistical comparisons were madebetween the weights of empty uteri.

The effects of 14m and 12u on the proliferation of uterus in vivo werealso examined. 14m and 12u were administered subcutaneously at a dose of30 mg/kg/day, while E₂ was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 50μg/kg/day and tamoxifen at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day orally for 3 days.Tamoxifen was used as a tissue-selective positive control SERM. E₂ andtamoxifen stimulated the proliferation of uterus significantly, asdemonstrated by the increase in uterine weight, whereas both 14m and 12udid not induce uterine growth (FIG. 3D). In addition to confirming theabsence of uterotropic activity in vivo, these studies also were usedfor dose determination (30 mg/kg/day s.c) for the obesity studies.

Example 23 Obesity Studies

To determine the metabolic effects of 14m(4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one) and 12u(4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one) in ahigh fat diet (HFD) induced obesity model the following study wasconducted:

Study A:

C57BL6 male mice of 4 weeks of age were divided into different groupsand were fed with a normal or high fat diet (Harlan, Ind.). The normaldiet included protein (16.7%), carbohydrates (56%) and fat (4.2%), witha digestible energy of 3.3 Kcal/g. The high fat diet included protein(23.5%), carbohydrates (27.3%) and fat (34.3%), with a digestible energyof 5.1 Kcal/g.

For the prevention studies (studies 1 and 2), the animals were treatedwith vehicle, 14m or 12u 30 mg/kg/day s.c beginning on day 1 of thestudy and continuing for 12 weeks. For the treatment study (study 3),the animals were maintained on the irrespective diets for 6 weeks andthen treated daily as indicated for an additional 18 weeks. Biweeklybody weights and food consumption were measured. The animals weresacrificed at the end of each study and blood and tissues were collectedfor RNA isolation, histology and protein estimation. DEXA scanning wasperformed at the end of the first obesity study with 14m and MRIscanning (EchoMRI, 4-in-1 composition analyzer, Echo medical systems,Houston, Tex.) was performed at weeks 0, 6 and 12 for the second obesitystudy performed with 14m and 12u.

For the treatment obesity study (where the animals were fed with highfat diet for six weeks prior to beginning drug treatment for 18 weeks),MRI scans were performed at weeks 0, 6, 12, 18 and 24.

Cholesterol and leptin concentrations were measured in serum usingELISA-based methods.

MIP-1b is a part of the luminex beads inflammation panel of cytokinesobtained from Millipore (Billerica, Mass.). The list of cytokines isgiven in Table 7 below.

TABLE 7 Interferon-γ MIP-1a MIP-1a IL-6 Keratinocyte chemoattractant(KC) IL-5 Interferon inducible protein-10 IL-3 IL-7 IL-4 IL-9 IL-12p70IL-10 Eotaxin VEGF IL-12p40 Monocyte induced by γ-interferon IL-15Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 IL-2 M-CSF IL-13 G-CSF IL-1β Leukemiainhibitory factor cytokine IL-17 GM-CSF RANTES Lipopolysaccharideinduced CXC IL-1α chemokine TNF-α MIP-2

Histology was performed on cyrosections and stained with oil 0 red.Serum testosterone and FSH were measured using luminex beads method(Millipore).

Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were performed on 16-h fasted mice.Mice were given 150 mg glucose by oral gavage through a gastric tube.Blood samples were taken at 0, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after glucoseadministration and glucose levels were recorded.

For the ovariectomy-induced obesity model, 6 week old female C57BL6 micewere sham operated or ovariectomized and the study was carried out for 9weeks as indicated above.

RNA extracted from WAT, BAT, liver and muscle were reverse transcribedusing cDNA synthesis kit (Applied biosystems, Foster city, CA). RealtimePCR was performed for a selected list of genes involved in obesity andmetabolic diseases (Table 8 below) using realtime PCR TaqMan geneexpression array cards (Applied Biosystems).

TABLE 8 Genes involved in obesity and metabolic diseases for which PCRwas performed. ER-α Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase ER-β SREBP-1cPGC-1α GAPDH PGC-1β 18S UCP-1 Leptin receptor C/EBP-δ Phospholipidstransfer protein mCPT-1 C/EBP-α PPAR-δ STAT-1 SHP GADD153 PRDM16Glutathione peroxidase 3 Dio2 CIDEA FASN Lipoprotein lipase CPT-1Farnesoid X-receptor LXR-α Amyloid precursor protein Apolipoprotein EPPAR-γ Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase PPAR-α

Example 23.1 14m Represses High Fat Diet Induced Body Weight Gain (StudyA—Example 23)

Maintenance on a high fat diet increased the body weight of the micesignificantly compared to the control mice starting from week 3 (FIG.4A). High fat diet mice treated with 14m showed only a moderate increasein body weight and were statistically indistinguishable from controlmice demonstrating the ability of 14m to repress the body weight gaininduced by a high fat diet. FIG. 4A (inset) shows representativepictures of mice in the high fat groups that were treated with vehicle(left) or 14m (right). Mice in the high fat diet groups that receivedvehicle alone gained 40% more weight than animals receiving a normaldiet (FIG. 4A lower panel). However, mice in the high fat diet grouptreated with 14m gained only 5% more weight than the normal diet-fedcontrols demonstrating a greater than 85% reduction in body weight by14m compared to animals receiving the high fat diet and vehicle.

Though the feed consumption of both groups of high fat diet fed animalswere lower than that observed for the control mice, 14m treatment didnot affect total caloric intake, indicating that alteration in feedconsumption or satiety was not the mechanism for the observed bodyweight reduction (FIG. 4B).

Treatment with 14m in Study 2 replicated the effects observed in theprior study shown in FIG. 4A with significant reduction in body weight(FIG. 5A) without altering the feed consumption (data not shown). 12ualso reduced the body weight of high fat diet-fed mice, with resultscomparable to those observed with 14m. Both ligands prevented the bodyweight increase caused by the high fat diet by more than 50%. The bodyweights of mice treated with 14m and 12u were statisticallyindistinguishable from the normal diet controls.

Example 23.2 14m Alters Metabolic Disease Markers (Study A—Example 23)

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to examine the bodycomposition changes that accompanied the body weight difference observedin mice that received the high fat diet and 14m. Animals that receivedthe high fat diet and vehicle had significantly higher body fat thananimals in normal diet (control) group or those receiving 14m (FIG. 6Aleft panel). This result indicates that 14m did not repress body weightby reducing lean mass or body water content, but brought about this bodyweight loss by suppressing fat mass formation.

MRI demonstrated a significant reduction in fat mass in both 14m and 12utreated groups compared to animals receiving the high fat diet andvehicle (FIG. 5B upper panel). Both ligands prevented the increase inbody fat by more than 50%, comparable to the reduction in body weightobserved by gravimetry.

Maintenance on a high fat diet and vehicle reduced the lean masssignificantly compared to normal diet controls (FIG. 5B lower panel).

Both 14m and 12u increased the lean mass in animals fed with the highfat diet, indicating that ER-β selective ligands not only repress bodyweight in high fat diet fed mice but do so by promoting favorablechanges in body composition (i.e., by decreasing fat mass and increasinglean mass). These changes were obvious as early as 6 weeks intotreatment and the differences were magnified by 12 weeks of treatment.

Example 23.3 14m Prevents Loss in Bone Mineral Content (BMC) (StudyA—Example 23)

As obesity inversely correlates with bone mineral density and content,the effects of diet and 14m on bone mineral content (BMC) was examinedusing DEXA. Maintenance on a high fat diet reduced BMC significantlycompared to controls. Treatment of high fat diet-fed mice with 14mprevented the loss in BMC and was actually statistically significantlyincreased relative to N. D. (FIG. 6A right panel), suggesting thatsecondary beneficial effects on bone accompany reduced obesity.

Example 23.4 14m Prevents Increase in Blood Glucose Levels. (StudyA—Example 23)

One of the many pathological conditions associated with obesity isinsulin resistance resulting in type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Glucose tolerance test were performed to determine if high fat diet-fedanimals exhibited signs of insulin resistance and T2DM. Administrationof glucose increased the blood sugar level as early as 15 min in all thegroups. Animals fed the high fat diet and treated with vehicledemonstrated a significant increase in blood glucose levels compared tonormal diet controls (FIG. 6D). However, the blood glucose levels ofhigh fat diet-fed mice with 14m were not statistically different fromthe normal diet controls.

Example 23.5 14m Prevents Increase in Serum Cholesterol and LeptinLevels. (Study A—Example 23)

Serum cholesterol (FIG. 6C) and leptin levels (FIG. 6E) weresignificantly increased in animals fed the high fat diet and treatedwith vehicle as compared to normal diet controls and this increase wassignificantly reversed by 14m.

Example 23.6 14m Prevents Increase in White Adipose Tissue (WAT) Weightand Decrease in Gastrocnemius Muscle Weight

Six week old C57BL/6 mice were randomized, based on body weight, intothree study groups as shown in the Study Parameters Table below. In theFirst Study, the Group I mice (n=5) received regular rodent chow andvehicle, the Group II mice (n=5) received the high fat diet and vehicle,and the Group III mice (n=5) received the high fat diet and 30 mg/kg/day14m. In the Second Study, the Group III mice (n=12) received the highfat diet and 30 mg/kg/day 12u.

TABLE Study Parameters Group Diet Treatment (s.c.) The First Study 1Normal Vehicle 2 High Fat Vehicle 3 High Fat 30 mg/kg/day 14m The SecondStudy 3 High Fat 30 mg/kg/day 12u

The normal diet included protein (16.7%), carbohydrates (56%) and fat(4.2%), with a digestible energy of 3.3 Kcal/g. The high fat dietincluded protein (23.5%), carbohydrates (27.3%) and fat (34.3%), with adigestible energy of 5.1 Kcal/g.

The mice were treated for 12 weeks. Twice weekly, the body weight andfeed consumption were measured.

A glucose tolerance test was also performed at the completion of thestudy by administering 150 mg glucose orally to the mice and measuringblood glucose levels at 0, 15, 30 and 60 minutes post glucoseadministration.

At sacrifice, the mice organ weights were measured and collected forhistology, gene expression and protein expressions. Blood was collectedfor serum marker determination (cholesterol, glucose, leptin).

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was performed to measure thebody composition in Study 1.

An MRI scan was performed at the beginning of the study, after 6 weeksand at the completion of the study.

WAT, brown adipose tissue (BAT), liver and muscle weights were measuredat mice sacrifice. No significant difference in BAT, liver and muscleweights were observed between the groups (data not shown). However, WATweight was significantly increased by 2-2.5 fold in animals maintainedon the high fat diet treated with vehicle compared to normal dietcontrols. This increase in WAT weight was significantly reduced in 14mtreated mice (FIG. 6B). Tissue weights indicated that both 14m and 12ucomparably decreased WAT weight and increased gastrocnemius muscle (FIG.7) weight without altering the weights of other tissues (data notshown), reproducing the results demonstrated in FIG. 6.

Example 23.7 14m Prevents Fatty Liver Condition. (Study A—Example 23)

One of the perilous secondary effects of obesity andhypercholesterolemia is the accumulation of fat in the liver, acondition called fatty liver. Liver cyrosections were obtained fromstudied mice and stained with oil O-red to determine the accumulation offat in liver. Photographs shown in FIG. 8 demonstrate that maintenanceon a high fat diet increased the accumulation of fat in liver sectionsas evident from the increased oil red staining. However, liver sectionsobtained from high fat diet-fed mice treated with 14m did not stain foroil red suggesting that 14m completely prevented the accumulation of fatin the liver.

Example 23.8 Cross Reactivity Studies with ER-α: 14m does not Affect FSHand Testosterone Levels. (Study A—Example 23)

To ensure that the effects on body composition and weight were notmediated by cross reactivity with ER-α, parameters in thehypothalamus:pituitary:gonadal (HPG) axis were measured in studied mice.As ER-α is associated with a variety of side effects such asthromboembolism, cardiovascular problems, breast cancer and others, anyfunctional cross reactivity of the ER-β ligands in vivo with thisreceptor isoform might be considered undesirable and preclude its usefor a chronic medical condition like obesity. Testes weights (FIG. 9A)and serum testosterone (FIG. 9B) levels were not altered by 14m or 12uin animals fed with the high fat diet and treated with vehicle, 14m or12u for 12 weeks. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), another hormone inthe HPG axis, was also not altered by diet or drug treatment (FIG. 9C).These results suggest that the anti-obesity effects of the β-SERMs werenot mediated through cross reactivity with ER-α or effects on sexhormone levels.

Example 23.9 14m Prevents Increase in Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-1β(MIP-1β). (Study A—Example 23)

Inflammation is a central component of obesity and recent studiesemphasize that obesity is an inflammatory disease. In order to determinethe role of inflammation in high fat diet-induced obesity, a panel of 32inflammatory cytokines was measured in serum using luminex beads fromMillipore (See Table 7 above). Of the 32 cytokines measured, onlymacrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β) was significantly increasedby the high fat diet in the studied mice. However, this increase wascompletely reversed and the levels were brought down to undetectablelevels by 14m (FIG. 6F).

Example 23.10 14m Alters the Expression of Genes Involved inAdipogenesis and Anti-Oxidant Pathways (Study A—Example 23)

A subset of 32 genes that are implicated in lipogenesis, lypolysis,anti-oxidant and other related pathways were selected and the effect of14m on these genes was evaluated using TaqMan PCR based arrays. RNA fromliver, muscle, WAT and BAT were applied to these arrays. Genes for whichtheir expression was more than 2-fold different and significant atp<0.01 in 14m treated mice compared to high fat diet animals treatedwith vehicle are summarized in Table 9.

TABLE 9 Gene Name Increase/Decrease Function Brown Adipose Tissue Ddit3(DNA damage inducible Decrease Promotes obesity, oxidative stress,β-cell damage transcript III) GPx-3 (glutathione peroxidase) IncreasePrevents obesity, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, inflammation andmajor antioxidant in plasma LPL (lipoprotein lipase) Decrease Highlevels increase insulin resistance and type IIDM. High fat diet increaseLPL in tissues PLTP (phospholipid transfer Decrease Involved inatherogenesis, hypercholesterolemia and protein) atherosclerosis ER-β(Estrogen receptor β) Increased Dhcr24 (dehydrocholesterol DecreasedEncodes cholesterol synthesizing enzyme Seladin-1 reductase) UCP-1(uncoupled protein-1) Increased Promotes energy expenditure, reducescholesterol White Adipose Tissue SREBP1 (Sterol regulatory DecreaseIncreases fatty acid synthesis and cholesterol element bindingprotein 1) FASN (fatty acid synthase) Decrease Fatty acid synthesis.Mostly in association with SREBP Ddit3 (DNA damage inducible DecreasePromotes obesity, oxidative stress, β-cell damage transcript III) LPL(lipoprotein lipase) Decrease High levels increase insulin resistanceand type IIDM. High fat diet increase LPL in tissues Liver GPx-3(glutathione peroxidase) Increase Prevents obesity, oxidative stress,insulin resistance, inflammation and major antioxidant in plasma CIDEA(Cell death inducing Decrease Very important factor in adipose cellfunction and DNA fragmentation factor) obesity

Example 23.11 14m Increases Uncoupling Protein-1 (UCP-1) Gene Expression

Uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1), a thermogenic mitochondrial protein and amarker for BAT, was decreased in animals that received the high fat dietand vehicle compared to normal diet controls. However, 14m reversed andin fact demonstrated an increase in UCP-1 gene expression (Table 9),suggestive of increased energy expenditure.

Example 23.12 12u Inhibits Body Weight and Fat Mass in Obese Animals(Study 3: Treatment Phase)

As the first two studies were designed to prevent obesity (i.e. animalswere fed with a high fat diet and treated simultaneously), a subsequentstudy was conducted to evaluate the ability of 12u to affect bodycomposition in mice that were already fed with the high fat diet andwere obese. Mice were divided into three groups with one group fed withnormal diet (control) and the other two groups fed with the high fatdiet for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, the animals were treated daily withvehicle or 30 mg/kg/day 12u s.c. for another 12 weeks. All the animalswere maintained in their respective diets during the entire course ofthe study. Maintenance on the high fat diet significantly increased thebody weight by 3 weeks compared to normal diet controls. Initiation of12u treatment at week 6 prevented further gains in body weightthroughout the remainder the study. By week 16, the body weight of highfat diet-fed animals treated with 12u was not significantly differentfrom normal diet control mice (FIG. 10 A). MRI demonstrated that thebody fat increase observed in animals on the high fat diet was reducedby treatment with 12u (FIG. 10B).

Example 23.13 β-SERMs Alter Body Composition in an Animal Model ofPostmenopausal Obesity. (Study A—Example 23)

Postmenopausal obesity increases the susceptibility of women tocardiovascular risks [Turgeon J L et al 2006 Endocr Rev 27:575-605].Since it was shown that β-SERMs affected body composition in an animalmodel of high fat diet-induced obesity, they might also be effective inan animal model of postmenopausal obesity. Ovariectomy (OVX) increasedthe body weight significantly over the sham operated animals (FIG. 11A).Surprisingly, 12u did not inhibit body weight gain in this model. Unlikethe observation in high fat diet model, 12u increased the feedconsumption of OVX mice (FIG. 11B). As shown in the high fat diet model,MRI scan demonstrated that OVX increased the fat mass significantly andthat 12u completely prevented the increase in fat mass (FIG. 11C leftpanel). 12u also significantly increased lean mass (FIG. 11C rightpanel) indicating that 12u caused consistent changes in body compositionin the high fat diet- and OVX-induced animal models of obesity.Measurement of WAT and uterus weights indicated that 12u completelyinhibited the WAT accrued due to OVX without affecting uterine weight,indicating absence of ER-α cross reactivity (FIG. 11D).

Example 23.14 ER-β Ligand Dependently Inhibits PPAR-γ Function (StudyA—Example 23)

Foryst-Ludwig et al [Foryst-Ludwig A et al 2008 PLoS Genet 4:e1000108]previously demonstrated that ER-β ligand independently inhibits PPAR-γthrough N-terminal interactions. PPAR-γ was also demonstrated to be aproadipogenic transcription factor [Tontonoz P et al 2008 Annu RevBiochem 77:289-312]. In addition, one of the genes completely repressedby 14m in BAT and WAT (i.e., LPL) is a PPAR-γ target gene (Table-10)[Kersten S 2008 PPAR Res 2008:132960]. Transactivation studies were thusperformed in HEK-293 cells transfected with ER-β, PPAR-γ or PPAR-α andPPRE-LUC to determine the direct or indirect effects of 14m and 12u onPPAR activity. Both β-SERMs partially inhibited troglitazone-inducedPPAR-γ activity when co-transfected with ER-β (FIG. 12A left panel) butdid not affect WY14643 induced PPAR-α transactivation (FIG. 12A rightpanel). Ligand independent or constitutive inhibition of PPAR-γ by ER-βwas also observed, confirming the earlier report [Foryst-Ludwig A et al2008 PLoS Genet 4:e1000108].

To determine whether the ligand binding domain (LBD) of ER-β wasrequired to inhibit PPAR-γ transactivation, histidine 475 in the ER-βLBD was mutated to alanine. This residue is critical for ligand bindingto ER-β. This was confirmed by mutating H475 to alanine and comparingits transactivation to wildtype ER-β. Transfection of HEK-293 cells withERE-LUC, ER-β or H475A ER-β confirmed that mutation of H475 to alanineabrogated the ability of estradiol to activate ER-β (FIG. 12B).

Since H475A impaired estradiol-dependent ER-β transactivation, theability of this mutant receptor to inhibit PPAR-γ transactivation wasdetermined and compared to wildtype. As shown in FIG. 12C, wildtype ER-βinhibited ligand-dependently and independently the troglitazone-inducedPPAR-γ transactivation, whereas H475A ER-β did not inhibit PPAR-γtransactivation indicating the importance of ligand binding and ER-β-LBDto inhibit PPAR-γ transactivation.

PPAR-γ coactivator-1 (PGC-1) functions selectively as a PPAR-γcoactivator in many tissues such as WAT, BAT and pancreatic islets. Todetermine whether ER-β ligands inhibit the ability of PGC-1 tocoactivate PPAR-γ, PPAR-γ transactivation studies were performed in thepresence or absence of PGC-1. In the absence of ER-β, troglitazoneactivated PPAR-γ, while PGC-1 robustly increased both the basal andligand dependent activity (FIG. 12D upper panel). However, wildtypeER-β, but not H475A ER-β, ligand-dependently abolished thetroglitazone-dependent PPAR-γ transactivation, indicating that ER-β notonly inhibits uncoactivated PPAR-γ but also inhibits PGC-1 coactivatedPPAR-γ transactivation. Conversely, coactivation of PPAR-α by PGC-1 wasnot inhibited by ER-β (FIG. 12D lower panel) confirming the selectivityof inhibition and lack of cross reactivity.

Small heterodimeric partner (SHP) is an orphan member of the NHR familythat is also known to play a role in metabolic diseases [Nishigori H etal 2001 Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 98:575-80]. The SHP promoter contains anestrogen response element (ERE) and its activity was increased byestradiol through ER-α [Lai K et al 2003 J Biol Chem 278:36418-29].HEK-293 cells transfected with SHP promoter-luciferase, FXR and ER-βplasmids were used to determine whether 14m and 12u activate SHP throughER-β. FIG. 12E (right panel) demonstrates that neither of the ligandsactivated SHP whereas FXR ligand GW4064 increased its activitysignificantly. The left panel of FIG. 12E shows that an ER-α selectiveligand PPT increased SHP activity reproducing the earlier publishedresults that SHP is an ER-α target gene.

The results obtained in this study suggest that estrogen receptorligands, e.g., the ERβ agonists Compounds 14m and 12u, show surprisingeffectiveness in the treatment of metabolic diseases such as obesity andrelated diseases.

Example 24 Anti-Inflammatory Effect of NRBAs on Macrophage-EndothelialCell Adhesion

To determine the anti-inflammatory effects of ER-β NRBAs in vitro, amacrophage adhesion assay was performed. Macrophages adhere toendothelial cells due to elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.This principle was used in this assay to determine the effect of one ofthe ER-β NRBAs on bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced THP-1macrophage cell adhesion to bEND-3 endothelial cells. As shown in theFIG. 13, 12y (panel A) and 12u (panel B) significantly inhibited theadhesion of ³H labeled THP-1 cells to bEND-3 cells indicative of reducedinflammatory cytokine levels and a subsequent anti-inflammatory effect.

Example 25 Effect of the Compounds on TRAP Positive MultinucleatedOsteoclasts

Bone marrow cells isolated from rat femur are cultured in Alpha MEMwithout phenol red+10% sterile FBS without phenol red in the presence orabsence of 30 ng/mL RANKL and 10 ng/ml GMCSF, and the compounds. Thecells treated for 12 days are stained for tartarate resistant acidphosphatase activity (TRAP) positive multinucleated osteoclasts and arecounted. Suppression of osteoclast activity is evaluated.

Example 26 In Vivo Estrogenic Activity of Some Embodiments of theCompounds

Female rats are administered increasing doses of toremifene, estrogenand the respective NRBAs, and uterine weights are determined. Ratsadministered the vehicle alone serve as controls.

Example 27 Metabolic Stability of Some Embodiments of the Compounds inHuman Liver Microsomes

Human liver microsomes are utilized as a representative system in orderto assess the potential of the compounds to form pharmacologicallyinactive or undesired potentially toxic metabolites due to phase Imetabolism.

Each substrate or reference control is dissolved at a concentration of10 mM in DMSO, from which a 5 μM spiking solution prepared by dilutionin water. Substrates (1 μM) are incubated in the presence of human livermicrosomes (Xenotech LLC, Kansas City Mo.) at 0.5 mg/mL fortified withan NADPH regenerating system at 37° C. and pH 7.4. The NADPHregenerating system consists of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (1units/mL) in 0.05M K₂HPO₄. Duplicate incubations are performed in96-well polypropylene cluster tubes in a final volume of 250 μL perreaction. At 0, 2, 4, 6, 10, 30, and 60 minutes a stop solution (300 μLacetonitrile) is added to aliquots of the reaction mixture. Precipitatedprotein is removed by centrifugation (3000 rpm for 15 minutes) and thesupernatants are transferred to clean 96-well plates for analysis.

LC-MS/MS Analysis:

The samples are injected onto a Phenomenex Luna hexylphenyl 50×2 mm i.d.5 uM, column fitted with a guard column. An isocratic mobile phaseconsisting of 50% acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water is used ata flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. The protonated molecular ion (M+H)⁺ of theanalyte is monitored by MDS/Sciex API 4000QTrap triple quadrupole massspectrometer using electrospray positive mode ionization with atemperature of 500° C. and a spray voltage of 4000V.

Data Evaluation:

Metabolic stability is defined as the amount of substrate metabolized bythe incubation with hepatic microsomes and expressed as a percentage ofthe initial amount of substrate (% remaining) based on peak area. Theinitial peak area of each substrate is determined at time zero andmetabolic stability is assessed based on the change in analyte peak areafrom time 0 min to a single fixed timepoint for each sample.

Example 28 Compound Lowering of LDL Cholesterol Levels

The compounds may be evaluated in clinical trial settings. Followingadministration of the compounds, their effect in altering lipid profilesin subjects with prostate cancer, undergoing or having undergone ADT maybe similarly evaluated.

Example 29 In Vivo Anti-Inflammation Activity

To determine the anti-inflammatory effects of ER-β NRBAs in vivo, animalpaws were injected with carrageenan, which elicits an acute localinflammatory response. Per-oral treatment of 12b, 1 hr prior toCarrageenan challenge resulted in a 53% reduction in paw edema, measured4 hours post-Carrageenan injection, as shown in FIG. 14, indicating thecompound's anti-inflammatory affect.

Example 30 The Effect of NRBAs on the Rat Aorta

Experimental Protocol.

Equipment used in these studies included a 4-tissue bath system withreservoirs and circulators (RadnotiGlass Technology, Monrovia, Calif.),DSI/Ponemah tissue force analyzer 7700 (Valley View, Ohio), and iWorx/CBSciencesforce transducers FT-302. The 250 g rats were anesthetized withisoflurane to produce deep anesthesia. The chest of the rat was opened,and about 3 cm length of aorta was removed and placed in a Petri dishcontaining room temperature Krebs salt solution (KSS, in mM: 120 NaCl, 5KCl, 1.2 MgSO₄.7H20, 2.5 CaCl₂.2H₂O, 1 KH₂PO₄, 25 NaHCO₃, and 11glucose). Fat and connective tissue were removed from the aorta takingcare not to stretch the vessel. The aorta was then divided into3-mm-wide rings. Triangular wire holders were inserted through the lumenof the vessel and connected to the force transducer and tissue holderrod in the vessel bath.

Data and Statistical Analyses.

Analog-to-digital conversions of force waveforms were accomplished witha DSI/Ponemah tissue force analyzer 7700. The converted data wereautomatically analyzed with Ponemah Physiology-Smooth Muscle software.All data are summarized as means±standard error. Differences betweenmeans were assessed by a conventional ANOVA. This was followed byStudent's test. P<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Preload and Equilibration.

The tension on the rings was adjusted to 1.0 g passive force using thetension adjustment dial for each transducer and allowed to equilibratefor 60 min in the bath with a 95% O₂-5% CO₂ gas mixture. The rings werewashed with fresh buffer every 20 min. Passive force was readjusted to1.0 g as needed during this period. When rings were stable at 1.0 g ofpassive force, the baseline was calculated.

Preconditioning of Aortic Rings.

Phenylephrine (PE) at a final concentration of 10⁻⁷ M was added to thebath to contract the ring, and force was allowed to stabilize for 10min. Then acetylcholine (ACH) at a final concentration of 10⁻⁵ M wasadded to the precontracted rings to test for endothelial integrity (10min). After the initial test for vessel viability and endothelialintegrity, the rings were washed three times for 10 min with buffer,allowing it to equilibrate to active force stabilized at 1 g.

Relaxation Protocol.

FIG. 15 shows a typical concentration-response protocol for NRBAs.Cumulative concentration-response curves to NRBAs were created byincreasing the NRBAs concentration in the tissue bath by successiveaddition of appropriate dilutions of stock solutions to achieve finalbath concentrations of 300 nM to 0.15 mM NRBAs. FIG. 16 shows a typicalconcentration-response curve generated for NRBAs.

Contraction protocol. FIG. 17 shows a typical concentration-responseprotocol for PE. After the preconditioning step, the rings wereincubated in the baths with the NRBAs for 2 hrs. Then cumulativeconcentration-response curves to PE were created by increasing the PEconcentration in the tissue bath by successive addition of appropriatedilutions of stock solutions to achieve final bath concentrations of 1nM to 300 μM PE. FIG. 18 shows a typical concentration-response curvegenerated for PE.

The effect of long-term incubation of aortic rings with NRBAs on aorticring contractility was studied after 15-16 hr incubation of the aorticrings with NRBAs in oxygenated KSS under 0 g tension. Then twosubsequent concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) were added each for 10min and the tension was recorded. At the end of the experiment 60 mM KClwas used to further constrict the aortic rings. The results expressed asthe percentage of the maximal constriction prior to the NRBAs incubationare summarized on FIG. 19.

Table 10 summarizes EC₅₀ values and maximal % decrease of the 10⁻⁶ PEconstriction of the aortic ring for individual NRBAs tested

TABLE 10 Mean of Mean Maximal % EC₅₀ (μM) SD Decrease SD 14l (n = 1)19.8 45.01 14m (r = 3) 7.64 3.34 94.49  3.09 12u (n = 2) 30 14.28  50.97

2.23 12y (n = 2) 13.24 1

.12 80.63

3.94 12z (n = 1) 15.1 83.58 DMSO (n = 3) 8.05 5.64 40.01 20.74

indicates data missing or illegible when filed

Conclusions.

The experiments show effects of the some embodiments of the NRBAs ofthis invention, on rat aorta relaxation. The effects occur at lowmicromolar concentrations and have rapid time-course effects suggestingnon-genomic action as well as long time-course action possibly involvinggenomic effects. These effects were similar in aortas from male orfemale rats indicating there is no gender difference in vascularresponse under studied conditions.

These effects might confer protective outcome in cardiovascular systemand be clinically useful as a substitute for estrogens in preventingcardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women as well as men.

Example 31 The Effect of ER-Beta Agonists on Proliferation of Rat AorticSmooth Muscle Cells

Rationale:

Cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease andatherosclerosis have a higher incidence in post-menopausal women than inpremenopausal women. This loss of cardiovascular protection is oftenattributed to the deficiency in circulating estrogen levels inpost-menopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can markedlyreduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in post-menopausal women.However, the use of HRT for cardioprotection is limited due to theincreased incidence of endometrial cancer in women and gynecomastia inmen. This has led to a search for compound that can provide thebeneficial effects of estrogen on the heart but do not have theundesirable side effects on uterus or breast.

Estrogen action in target tissues is mediated by its interaction withits cognate receptors ER-α and ER-β. Both ER-α as well as ER-β specificligands have been shown to modulate cardioprotection in rats. Usingisotype selective knockout models, proliferative effects of estrogen onuterus and breast were shown to be mediated predominantly through ER-αand not through ER-β. These data indicate that an ideal compound forcardioprotection would be an ER-β specific ligand that would providecardioprotection alone and have a better safety profile for breast anduterine tissues.

The pathogenesis of vasculoproliferative disorders like congestive heartdisease, arteriosclerosis and restenosis involves structural changes inthe vessel wall characterized by migration of smooth muscle cells (SMC)from the media into the intima and proliferation and deposition ofextracellular matrix proteins (ECM) such as collagen. The role of ER-βligands in preventing an early stage in this process was determined;namely, the proliferation of Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells (RASMC) inculture.

Materials and Methods

Cells and Reagents:

HyQ-DMEM/F12 1:1 modified medium and fetal bovine serum was obtainedfrom HyClone Laboratories Inc. DMEM/F12 50:50 was obtained from CellgroTechnologies. 17β Estradiol, Biochanin A, and tamoxifen were obtainedfrom Sigma Chemical Co. WST-1 reagent was obtained from Roche. RatAortic Smooth Muscle cells (RASMC) were obtained from Lonza,Switzerland.

Cell Proliferation Assay:

All cells used in the assay were between passage 3 to 5. RASMCs wereplated at a density of 1×10⁴ cells/well in a 24 well plate, allowed toattach and grown to subconfluence in HyQ-DMEM/F12+10% FBS overnight.Cells were then growth arrested by replacing the medium with DMEM(phenol-red free) containing 0.4% BSA for 48 hrs. After 48 hrs, growthwas initiated by replacing the medium with DMEM (phenol-red free)+2.5%FCS containing vehicle or appropriate drug concentration for 4 days.Fresh drug-containing medium was added to the cells every 2 days. On the5^(th) day 50 μl of WST-1 reagent (Roche) was then added to the cellsand incubated for 1 hr at 37° C. Absorbance was then determined in thesamples at 450 nm wavelength in a Victor plate reader (Perkin-Elmer Inc,USA). The WST-1 assay is based on the estimation of the cleavage oftetrazolium salts to formazan by cellular enzymes. An expansion in thenumber of viable cells results in an increase in activity of themitochondrial dehydrogenases in the sample. This increased activityresults in increased formazan dye formation which gives an absorbancebetween 420-480 nm. Absorbance measured is directly correlated to thenumber of metabolically active cells in culture. Absorbance of the cellsin control wells on day 0 (G0) of drug treatment was obtained and thecell proliferation following drug treatment was expressed as apercentage of the day 0 growth.

Results

A range of compounds was tested in this assay, including an ER-αantagonist (tamoxifen), ER-β agonist (Biochanin A, 14l, 12u 14m, 12z)and mixed agonist (estradiol). Cell proliferation was calculated as apercentage of cell number on Day 0 of drug treatment. The ER-β ligandsBiochanin A, 14l, 12u, and 14m inhibited the proliferation of RASMC in adose-dependent manner at concentration between 10-30 μM. An increase inabsorbance (increase in cell number) from Day 0 was seen in all drugtreatments except for the two highest concentrations of tamoxifen (10 μMand 30 μM) indicating that all the ER-β ligands were well tolerated bycells even at the highest concentration. The reduced cell numbers in thetamoxifen (10 μM and 30 μM) compared to day 0 treated wells indicatestoxicity of the drug. The EC₅₀ values for the reduction in cellproliferation were calculated for all the drugs and is shown in Table11. A representative titration of 14l is shown in FIG. 20A.

Table 11: EC₅₀ values for inhibition of RASMC proliferation by ER-βligands. EC₅₀ values were calculated using WinNonLin 5.0.1 using theinhibitory effect sigmoid E_(max) model.

Compound EC₅₀ (μM) Estradiol 36.41 Biochanin A 9.79 12z 25.05 12u 9.5614l 9.63 14m 7.89 Tamoxifen 4.03

Conclusions:

ER-β specific ligands in general inhibited the proliferation of RASMCbetter than a mixed agonist like estradiol. The ER-α antagonisttamoxifen at lower concentration did not have any effect on cellproliferation while at the higher concentration it was shown to be toxicto cells leading to significant reduction in cell numbers. Interestinglythe ER-β ligands did not seem to have any toxic effects on cells even atthe highest concentration tested, indicating that the observed effect oncell numbers is more a function on cell cycle arrest/progression thanapoptosis and cell death. These data indicate that ER-β ligands cansignificantly inhibit an early step in vascular remodeling and could beof benefit for treatment of vasculoocclusive disorders likearteriosclerosis and restenosis.

Example 32A Effect of ER-Beta SERMs on Preventing Oxidative Stress inARPE Cells

Rationale:

Cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease,atherosclerosis have a higher incidence in post-menopausal women than inpremenopausal women. This loss of cardiovascular protection isattributed to the deficiency in circulating estrogen levels in thepost-menopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can markedlyreduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in post-menopausal women.However, the use of HRT for cardioprotection is limited due to theincreased incidence of endometrial cancer in women and gynecomastia inmen. This has led to a search for compounds that can provide thebeneficial effects of estrogen on the heart but do not have theundesirable side effects on uterus or breast.

Estrogen action in target tissues is mediated by its interaction withits cognate receptors ER-α and ER-β. Both ER-α as well as ER-β specificligands have been shown to modulate cardioprotection in rats. Theproliferative effects of estrogen on uterus and breast is mediatedpredominantly through the ER-α while the ER-β does not have anystimulatory effect on these tissues. These studies make a case for usingER-β specific ligands for cardiovascular protection without the systemiceffects that could be expected from ER-α ligands. Oxidative stress isone of the main etiological factors of cardiovascular diseases likehypertension, CHD and atherosclerosis. Estrogens through variousmolecular mechanisms (genomic and nongenomic) have been shown toactivate intracellular signaling cascades that are involved in thetranscriptional activation of eNOS and other antioxidant defense genes.

In this study the ability of ER-β compounds to prevent the oxidativedamage caused by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BH) on retinal pigmentedepithelial cells (RPE) was measured. The retinal pigment epithelium(RPE) due to their location between the photoreceptors and choroid arecontinuously exposed to high oxygen fluxes. A high level of oxidativestress occurs in the RPE as a result of the formation of abnormal levelsof reactive oxygen species (ROS). These features apart from readyavailability of the transformed cell line from ATCC makes RPE an idealsystem to study the effects of oxidative stress.

Materials and Methods

Cells and Reagents:

Human ARPE-19 cells were obtained from ATCC (Manassas, Va.). All cellsused in the experiments were between passage 9 to 12. HyQ-DMEM/F12 1:1modified medium and fetal bovine serum was obtained from HyCloneLaboratories Inc. DMEM/F12 50:50 was obtained from Cellgro technologies.17β Estradiol, Biochanin A were obtained from Sigma Chemical Co. WST-1reagent was obtained from Roche. HBSS media was from Gibco.Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate was obtained from (H2DCFDA;Molecular Probes, Eugene Oreg.). ICI was from Tocris.

Fluorescent Detection of Intracellular ROS:

ARPE-19 cells were plated at 100,000 cells/well in a 24 well plate incomplete medium (HyQ-DMEM/F12 1:1 modified medium). Cells were allowedto adhere overnight. The next day, media was removed and cells werewashed 1× with HBSS. 10 μM H2DCFDA diluted in HBSS was then added to thecells and cells were incubated at 37° C. for 30 mins. After theincubation period the excess dye was removed and cells washed 1× withHBSS. The cells were then preincubated with the respectiveconcentrations of drugs for 1 hour. Following the incubation periodoxidative stress was induced with 150 μM tBH for 1 hr at 37° C. Removedand washed cells once with HBSS. The ability of intracellular ROS tooxidize the dye to its fluorescent product was measured and quantifiedusing a Victor plate reader (Perkin Elmer Corporation, Norwalk, Conn.;excitation at 485 nm; emission at 535 nm). Each drug concentration wasdone in triplicates. The relative fluorescence was calculated as apercentage of tBH only control.

Results

The ability of ER-β SERMs to prevent oxidative damage induced by 150 μMtBH was measured in ARPE-19 cells using a fluorescence based assay.Estradiol was used as a control for the experiment. The experiment wasdone in the presence and absence of estrogen receptor antagonist ICI. Asseen in FIG. 20B, 150 μM tBH was sufficient to cause the accumulation ofreactive oxidative species (ROS) in the ARPE cells following 1 hour ofincubation at 37° C. Estradiol at a concentration of 100 nM was able toprevent ROS formation with a reduction in ROS formation of approximately30%. This inhibitory effect of estradiol was reversed with treatmentwith 100 nM ICI. The ER-β ligands 14l and 12y were also able to preventthe ROS formation with inhibition of more than 50%. 12z was able toprevent ROS formation as well as estradiol while 12u did not seem tohave any effect on prevention of oxidative stress in the ARPE cells. Asseen with estradiol the inhibitory effect of the ER-β was reversed withICI indicating a receptor dependent mechanism of action. Cells treatedwith oxidant in absence of dye did not result in background fluorescence(data not shown).

Conclusions

ER-β compounds 14l, 12z and 12y protected ARPE-19 cells from oxidativedamage. This protective effect was reversed with a non-selective ERantagonist ICI indicating that the protective effect is mediated throughan estrogen receptor mediated mechanism.

Example 32B Effect of ER-Beta SERMs on Preventing Oxidative Stress

The expression of genes that promote lipogenesis such as lipoproteinlipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FASN), sterol regulatory elementbinding protein-1 (SREBP-1), phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) anddehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr24) were increased in BAT and WATisolated from high fat diet-fed mice treated with vehicle. This increasewas reversed by the administration of 14m. In addition, genes such asglutathione peroxidase (GPx-3) and DNA damage inducible transcript III(Ddit3) that are involved in the anti-oxidant and oxidative stresspathways were significantly altered by 14m (Table 9). Cumulatively,these results suggest that 14m mediates its anti-obesity effects byinhibiting lipogenesis, increasing energy expenditure and altering theanti-oxidant pathways.

Example 33 Anti-Proliferative Effect of NRBAs on Prostate and ColonCancer Cell Lines

The effects of treatment of an ER-β selective NRBA of this invention oncancer cell proliferation was examined using LNCaP prostate cancer cellsand C-26 colon cancer cells. LNCaP or C-26 cells were plated in growthmedium in 24 well and 6 well plates, respectively. LNCaP cells weretreated for 6 days and C-26 cells were treated for 3 days at theindicated concentration. ³H thymidine incorporation was measured at theend of treatment as an indicator of cell proliferation. FIGS. 21 and 22shows that 12b and 12u significantly inhibited the growth of LNCaPprostate cancer and C-26 colon cancer cells, respectively, indicative oftheir potent anti-proliferative effects.

Example 34 In Vivo Anti-Proliferative Effect of NRBAs on Prostate CancerXenograft Tumor Growth

Prostate tumor xenografts were established with LNCaP cells and humanprostate stromal cells in nude mice to establish the in vivoanti-proliferative effects of these ER-β NRBAs. A 4:1 ratio (based oncell number) of LNCaP:stroma cells was injected subcutaneously in nudemice and allowed to grow until they attained 100 mm³ in volume, asmeasured by calipers. The animals were treated with 12b and 12u at 30mg/kg/day for 21 days. Tumor volumes were measured twice a week andpercent tumor volume calculated, after 10, 14 and 21 days. FIG. 23 showsthat both 12b and 12u inhibited the growth of tumor significantly by day21, indicating that these NRBAs are anti-proliferative both in vitro andin vivo.

Example 35 The Compounds Inhibit Androgen Independent Prostate CancerCell Growth

The prostate cancer cell line PC-3 is plated in RPMI+10% csFBS at 6000cells per well of a 96 well plate. Medium is changed to RPMI+1% csFBSwithout phenol red and cells are treated for 72 hrs with increasingconcentrations of NRBAs. Growth inhibition is evaluated.

Example 36 Synthesis of6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one(15b)

4-Bromo-6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12b) (0.32g, 0.96 mmol), tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (56 mg, 0.05 mmol),potassium carbonate (0.13 g, 0.96 mmol) and 4-methoxyphenylboronic acid(0.18 g, 1.15 mmol) were placed in a dry and argon flushed 150 mLthree-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a stiffing bar and refluxcondenser. 1,2-Dimethoxyethane (10 mL) and water (3 mL) were added via asyringe under argon atmosphere. The reaction solution was stirred andheated to reflux for 6 hours. The reaction was quenched by adding 30 mLof water at room temperature. The mixture was extracted with ethylacetate (3×20 mL). The extracts were combined, washed with brine (2×10mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ and 2 g of3-(diethylenetriamino)propyl functionalized silica gel followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.25 g, 72.5% yield.MS: m/z 360.1 [M+H]⁺. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 10.28 (s, 1H), 9.68(s, 1H), 8.18 (d, 1H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.38 (d, 2H, J=9.0 Hz), 7.27 (d, 2H,J=8.7 Hz), 7.13 (s, 1H), 7.04 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.99 (dd, 1H, J₁=8.7Hz, J₂=2.4 Hz), 6.86-6.83 (m, 3H), 3.81 (s, 3H).

Example 38 Synthesis of6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one(15g)

4-Bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12u)(0.50 g, 1.44 mmol), tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (83 mg, 0.07mmol), potassium carbonate (0.40 g, 2.88 mmol) and4-methoxyphenylboronic acid (0.26 g, 1.72 mmol) were placed in a dry andargon flushed 150 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with astiffing bar and reflux condenser. 1,2-Dimethoxyethane (15 mL) and water(5 mL) were added via a syringe under argon atmosphere. The reactionsolution was stirred and heated to reflux for 16 hours. The reaction wasquenched by adding 50 mL of water at room temperature. The mixture wasextracted with ethyl acetate (3×20 mL). The extracts were combined,washed with brine (2×10 mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ and 2 g of3-(diethylenetriamino)propyl functionalized silica gel followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.45 g, 83.3% yield.MS: m/e 373.9 [M−H]⁻. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.32 (s, 1H), 10.33(s, 1H), 9.76 (s, 1H), 7.36 (d, 2H, J=9.0 Hz), 7.30 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz),7.11 (s, 1H), 7.04 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.86 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.32 (d,1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.30 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 3.80 (s, 3H).

Example 39 Synthesis of2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxy-4-vinylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one(15c)

4-Bromo-2-(3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxyisoquinolin-1(2H)-one(12z) (0.40 g, 1.09 mmol), tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (25 mg,0.02 mmol), potassium carbonate (0.60 g, 4.36 mmol) and vinylboronicanhydride pyridine complex (0.13 g, 0.55 mmol) were placed in a dry andargon flushed 150 mL three-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with astirring bar and reflux condenser. Anhydrous 1,2-dimethoxyethane (10 mL)and water (3 mL) were added via a syringe under argon atmosphere. Thereaction solution was stirred and heated to reflux for 20 hours. Thereaction was quenched by adding 20 mL of water at room temperature. Themixture was extracted with ethyl acetate/methanol (9/1 v/v) (3×20 mL).The extracts were combined, washed with brine (2×10 mL) and dried overanhydrous MgSO₄ followed by filtration and concentration to give ayellow residue. The yellow residue was purified by flash columnchromatography (silica-gel, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solidproduct, 0.23 g, 67.6% yield. MS: m/e 311.9 [M−H]⁻. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300MHz) δ 13.12 (s, 1H), 10.51 (s, 1H), 10.24 (s, 1H), 7.44-7.40 (m, 2H),7.17-7.03 (m, 2H), 6.80 (dd, 1H, J₁=17.1 Hz, J₂=10.8 Hz), 6.57 (d, 1H,J=2.1 Hz), 6.34 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 5.67 (dd, 1H, J₁=17.1 Hz, J₂=1.2 Hz).

Example 40 Synthesis of6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-phenylisoquinolin-1(2H)-one (15h)

4-Bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one (12u)(0.45 g, 1.29 mmol), tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (75 mg, 0.065mmol), potassium carbonate (0.38 g, 2.58 mmol) and phenylboronic acid(0.19 g, 1.55 mmol) were placed in a dry and argon flushed 150 mLthree-necked round-bottomed flask fitted with a stiffing bar and refluxcondenser. 1,2-Dimethoxyethane (15 mL) and water (5 mL) were added via asyringe under argon atmosphere. The reaction solution was stirred andheated to reflux for 16 hours. The reaction was quenched by adding 50 mLof water at room temperature. The mixture was extracted with ethylacetate (3×20 mL). The extracts were combined, washed with brine (2×10mL) and dried over anhydrous MgSO₄ and 2 g of3-(diethylenetriamino)propyl functionalized silica gel followed byfiltration and concentration to give a yellow residue. The yellowresidue was purified by flash column chromatography (silica-gel,CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=9/1 v/v) to give a white solid product, 0.40 g, 89.9% yield.MS: m/e 343.9 [M−H]⁻. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 300 MHz) δ 13.30 (s, 1H), 10.35(s, 1H), 9.76 (s, 1H), 7.52-7.39 (m, 5H), 7.31 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 7.16(s. 1H), 6.86 (d, 2H, J=8.7 Hz), 6.33 (d, 1H, J=2.1 Hz), 6.31 (d, 1H,J=2.1 Hz).

Example 41 Effect of ER-Beta SERMs on Preventing Hypertension

In this study the ability of ER-β compounds to prevent arterialhypertension was measured.

Materials and Methods

Animals

Thirty, ten week old female ovariectomized C57/BJ6 mice, were obtainedfrom Harlan/Sprague Dawley and were housed in 12 hour on/off lightingand fed rodent chow devoid of soy or most plant products. OvariectomizedERβ gene-deleted (ERβKO or ERβ-KO) mice were obtained from Ken Korach,NIEHS. The ERβ mice were originally created by Drs. Smithies,Gustafsson, and colleagues. All mice were identically housed and fed thesame chow.

Angiotensin II Model

Angiotensin-II (Ang II) is a peptide hormone which is commonly elevatedin heart disease. It has been demonstrated in the past that micedeveloped hypertension upon administration of Ang II. Ang II causesvasoconstriction leading to increased blood pressure. The Ang II animalmodel is a close mimic of human hypertension.

Ang II (1.1 mg/kg/day) in saline or saline alone-filled osmoticmini-pumps (Alzet, DURECT Corp, Cupertino, Calif.) or Ang II plus 100 μlof 12u (0.5 mg), provided 21-day infusion after subcutaneous insertionunder inhaled chlorofluorane anesthesia. In some mice, an E₂ pellet (0.1mg, 21-day release pellets, Innovative Research of America, Sarasota,Fla.) or placebo pellet was also inserted under the skin but these micedid not receive the 12u compound, for comparison. This pellet is welldocumented to produce physiological levels of E₂ in the serum of mice.

Hypertension

Blood pressure was measured 4 times during the 21-day period, using theCODA non-invasive blood pressure measuring system (Kent Scientific,Torrington, Conn.). Measurements were done by volume pressure recordingsof the tail.

Results

After 21 days of exposure to Ang II, severe hypertension was observed inwild type and ERβ-KO mice receiving Ang II. This effect was largelyprevented by 12u (30 mg/kg/day s.c.) or estradiol (E₂) (0.1 mgcontinuous release pellet) in wildtype mice both in terms of systolicand diastolic pressure. In ERβ-KO mice receiving the same treatment, AngII induced hypertension was mildly reduced in terms of systolic pressurebut unchanged in terms of diastolic pressure. Table 12 demonstratessystolic and diastolic pressures measured non-invasively on days 0, 7,14 and 21 of treatment in wildtype and ERβ-KO mice under the differentconditions.

TABLE 12 Time Saline Ang II Ang + 12U Ang + E2 WT  0 122/83 121/81120/85 123/85  7 days 119/82 143/95 120/88 121/82 14 days 115/85 145/96125/87 124/86 21 days 121/83 153/94 130/86 131/88 ERβKO  0 123/84 121/85123/87 126/86  7 days 125/85 149/98 143/98 149/95 14 days 123/85 155/96147/98 143/98 21 days 121/83 156/94 146/96 145/96

Conclusions

The ER-beta agonist 12u prevented Ang II induced cardiac hypertension.This cardioprotective effect was dependent on the presence of the ERβreceptor. The protective effect was similar to what was observed whenestradiol is administered.

Example 42 Effect of ER-Beta SERMs on Preventing Ventricular Hypertrophy

In this study the ability of ER-β compounds to prevent left ventricularhypertrophy caused by hypertension was measured.

Materials and Methods

Animals

Thirty, ten week old female ovariectomized C57/BJ6 mice, were obtainedfrom Harlan/Sprague Dawley and were housed in 12 hour on/off lightingand fed rodent chow devoid of soy or most plant products. OvariectomizedERβKO mice were obtained from Ken Korach, NIEHS. The ERβ mice wereoriginally created by Drs. Smithies, Gustafsson, and colleagues. Allmice were identically housed and fed the same chow.

Angiotensin II Model

Ang II is a peptide hormone which is commonly elevated in heart disease.It has been demonstrated in the past that mice developed cardiachypertrophy upon administration of Ang II. Ang II causesvasoconstriction leading to increased blood pressure. Working againstthis pressure causes the heart muscle to enlarge and, at the same time,causes the volume of the ventricles to contract. As left ventricularhypertrophy increases, the heart becomes an inefficient pump and beginsto fail. The Ang II animal model is the closest mimic of human cardiachypertrophy.

Ang II (1.1 mg/kg/day) in saline or saline alone-filled osmoticmini-pumps (Alzet, DURECT Corp, Cupertino, Calif.) or Ang II plus 100 μlof 12u (0.5 mg), provided 21-day infusion after subcutaneous insertionunder inhaled chlorofluorane anesthesia. In some mice, an E₂ pellet (0.1mg, 21-day release pellets, Innovative Research of America, Sarasota,Fla.) or placebo pellet was also inserted under the skin but these micedid not receive the 12u compound, for comparison. This pellet is welldocumented to produce physiological levels of E₂ in the serum of mice.

Cardiac Hypertrophy

At inception and after 21 days, the mice were weighed. Blood pressurewas measured 4 times during the 21-day period, using the CODAnon-invasive blood pressure measuring system. At 21 days the hearts werestopped in diastole by CdCl₂ administration. The hearts were removed andweighed and the ratio of heart per total body weight was determined.Next, the hearts were dissected and the left ventricles were weighed andthe ratio of left ventricle per total body weight was determined.Estrogen loss or administration did not significantly affect body weightover the 3 week period of the study, but heart weight was normalized toinitial body weight. For comparison ERβ gene-deleted mice were subjectedto the same conditions of Ang II±E₂ or the 12u compound. For histology,the hearts were and sectioned, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin,or Masson stain (for collagen)

Results

After 21 days of exposure to Ang II, severe left ventricular hypertrophywas observed in wild type and ERβKO mice. This effect was largelyprevented by 12u (30 mg/kg/day s.c.) or estradiol (0.1 mg continuousrelease pellet) in wildtype but not ERβKO mice. The pictures in FIG. 24Ademonstrate gross differences in cardiac organ size and, importantly,left ventricular volume. The bar graphs in FIG. 24B demonstrate the samestatistically significant effect in terms of left ventricular weightnormalized to body weight (LVW/BW). Similar effects were also seen withestradiol.

In terms of total heart size and weight, 12u and estradiol prevented theincreased size (FIG. 25A) and total heart weight (FIG. 25B) induced byAng II. There were no differences in body weight across treatmentgroups.

Conclusions

The ER-beta agonist 12u prevented Ang II induced cardiac hypertrophy andincreased heart size. This cardioprotective effect was completelydependent on the presence of the ERβ receptor. The protective effect wassimilar to what was observed when estradiol is administered. These datasuggest that compounds of the invention could be used to treat a varietyof heart diseases involving increased vascular resistance such ashypertension, congestive heart failure, post-myocardial infarction,hyperglycemia, etc., and may be able to prevent the cardiomegaly andleft ventricular hypertrophy associated with the increased vascularresistance. Thereby ER-beta agonists may prevent, treat, or delayprogression of a wide variety of heart diseases.

Example 43 Modulation of Markers of Cardiac Hypertrophy by ER-Beta SERMs

In this study the ability of ER-β compounds to modulate markers ofcardiac hypertrophy caused by hypertension was measured.

Materials and Methods

Animals

Thirty, ten week old female ovariectomized C57/BJ6 mice, were obtainedfrom Harlan/Sprague Dawley and were housed in 12 hour on/off lightingand fed rodent chow devoid of soy or most plant products. OvariectomizedERβKO mice were obtained from Ken Korach, NIEHS. The ERβ mice wereoriginally created by Drs. Smithies, Gustafsson, and colleagues. Allmice were identically housed and fed the same chow.

Angiotensin II Model

Ang II is a peptide hormone which is commonly elevated in heart disease.It has been demonstrated in the past that mice developed cardiachypertrophy upon administration of Ang II. Ang II causesvasoconstriction leading to increased blood pressure. Working againstthis pressure causes the heart muscle to enlarge and, at the same time,causes the volume of the ventricles to contract. As left ventricularhypertrophy increases, the heart becomes an inefficient pump and beginsto fail. The Ang II animal model is the closest mimic of human cardiachypertrophy.

Ang II (1.1 mg/kg/day) in saline or saline alone-filled osmoticmini-pumps (Alzet, DURECT Corp, Cupertino, Calif.) or Ang II plus 100 μlof 12u (0.5 mg), provided 21-day infusion after subcutaneous insertionunder inhaled chlorofluorane anesthesia. In some mice, an E₂ pellet (0.1mg, 21-day release pellets, Innovative Research of America, Sarasota,Fla.) or placebo pellet was also inserted under the skin but these micedid not receive the 12u compound, for comparison. This pellet is welldocumented to produce physiological levels of E₂ in the serum of mice.

Gene and Protein Expression

RT-PCR was accomplished using the following primers. GAPDH expressionserved as control gene for all studies. MCIP1,5′-GACTGGAGCTTCATTGACTGCGAGA and AAGGAACCTACAGCCTCTTGGAAAG; GAPDH,5′-AGCCACATCGCTCAGAACAC and GAGGCATTGCTGATGATCTTG.

For relative protein detection, immunoblots were carried out on proteinextracted from the left ventricles of mice from all conditions,following separation by SDS-PAGE and transfer to nitrocellulose. Cardiacmyosin heavy chain (MHC) and MCIP antibodies (ABCAM, Cambridge, Mass.and Santa Cruz Biotechnology Inc., Santa Cruz, Calif.), and brainnatriuretic peptide (BNP) antibodies (Peninsula Labs, Mountain View,Calif.) were used.

Results

In response angiotensin-II (Ang II), the hypertrophic gene and proteinprogram was induced. Strong expression of MHCα protein and weakexpression of MHCβ in the left ventricle of saline-infused,ovariectomized WT mice or ERβ-KO mice was found (FIG. 26). After 21 daysof exposure to Ang II, severe left ventricular hypertrophy was observedin wild type and ERβ-KO mice. Here, the relative expression of MHCprotein isoforms was reversed, with higher levels of MHCβ observed inresponse to 3 weeks of Ang II treatment, a hallmark of the hypertrophicgene and protein program. This Ang II effect was prevented by 12ucoadministration (30 mg/kg/day s.c.). Maintenance of normal MHC isoformexpression by 12u was evident in the WT mice but was not seen in ERβKOmice (FIG. 26). 12u treatment in the absence of Ang II also maintainedhealthy ratios (FIG. 26). This was consistent with 12u prevention ofhypertrophy (FIG. 25).

12u treatment in wildtype animals also partially prevented Ang IIinduced elevations in phospho-ERK (p-ERK), which is downstream of Ang IIreceptors, and induces the expression of the hypertrophic gene programin ventricular myocytes. This was not observed in untreated and ERβ-KOmice. 12u treatment in the absence of Ang II also did not elevate p-ERK(FIG. 27).

12u also promoted the transcription of the MCIP-1 gene, the proteinproduct of which inhibits calcineurin action, leading to prevention ofhypertrophy. In wildtype mice, 12u robustly elevated MCIP-1 levelsirrespective of Ang II treatment. This effect was also faintly seen inERβKO mice (FIG. 28).

Conclusions

Markers of Ang II-induced cardiac hypertrophy were modulated by 12u, incorrelation with the cardioprotective effect demonstrated for thismolecule. Modulation was completely dependent on the presence of the ERβreceptor.

Example 44 Effect of ER-Beta SERMs on Preventing Cardiac Fibrosis

In this study the ability of ER-β compounds to prevent cardiac fibrosiscaused by hypertension was measured by use of the angiotensin-II animalmodel, which is the closest mimic of human cardiac hypertrophy andfibrosis.

Materials and Methods

Animals

Thirty, ten week old female ovariectomized C57/BJ6 mice, were obtainedfrom Harlan/Sprague Dawley and were housed in 12 hour on/off lightingand fed rodent chow devoid of soy or most plant products. OvariectomizedERβKO mice were obtained from Ken Korach, NIEHS. The ERβ mice wereoriginally created by Drs. Smithies, Gustafsson, and colleagues. Allmice were identically housed and fed the same chow.

Angiotensin II Model

Ang II is a peptide hormone which is commonly elevated in heart disease.It has been demonstrated in the past that mice developed cardiachypertrophy leading to cardiac fibrosis upon administration of Ang II.The Ang II animal model is a close mimic of human cardiac fibrosis AngII (1.1 mg/kg/day) in saline or saline alone-filled osmotic mini-pumps(Alzet, DURECT Corp, Cupertino, Calif.) or Ang II plus 100 μl of 12u(0.5 mg), provided 21-day infusion after subcutaneous insertion underinhaled chlorofluorane anesthesia. In some mice, an E₂ pellet (0.1 mg,21-day release pellets, Innovative Research of America, Sarasota, Fla.)or placebo pellet was also inserted under the skin but these mice didnot receive the 12u compound, for comparison. This pellet is welldocumented to produce physiological levels of E₂ in the serum of mice.

Fibrosis

Left ventricular tissues were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde solution.Paraffin-embedded tissue sections (5 um) were stained with Masson'strichrome for the presence of interstitial collagen fiber accumulationindicative of cardiac fibrosis. The ratio of interstitial fibrosis tothe total left ventricular area was calculated from 10 randomly selectedmicroscopic fields from each of five sections per heart using NIH imageJanalysis software (n=5 mice per condition). Further quantification ofcollagen deposition was made by ventricular content of hydroxyproline, abreakdown product of collagen, determined by a modified method ofBergman and Loxley (19). The ventricular tissues were homogenized andhydrolyzed in 6 N HCl at 110° C. for 24 h in a sealed reaction vial. Thesample was dried and the residue re-suspended in sterile water. 0.5 mlof chloramine T was added for 5 min, then Ehrlich's reagent (3 ml) wasadded and the mixture left for 18 h at room temperature. The intensityof the red coloration that developed was measured by a spectrophotometerat 558 nm.

Results

After 21 days of exposure to Ang II, severe left ventricular hypertrophywas observed in wild type and ERβKO mice. Cardiac fibrosis was assessedby interstitial collagen fiber accumulation. It was found that Ang IIinfusion caused a very significant increase in fibrosis relative tosaline infusion (FIG. 29A). 12u and E₂ significantly inhibited fibrosisbut only in WT mice (FIG. 29A), as may be observed from fibrotic tissuewhich occurs in Ang II treated animals but not in wildtype 12u or E₂treated animals (FIG. 29A, blue staining). The extent of fibrosis forthe different groups was calculated in terms of the ratio ofinterstitial fibrosis to the total left ventricular area from 10randomly selected microscopic fields from each of five sections perheart. Results are shown in FIG. 29B.

Further quantification of collagen deposition was made by ventricularcontent of hydroxyproline, a breakdown product of collagen. 12u and E₂significantly inhibited the hydroxyproline content (collagen breakdownproduct) in the ventricle (FIG. 29C). This was seen in ovariectomized WTand ERαKO mice, but not in ERβKO mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Ang II induced heart fibrosis was prevented by 12u. Thiscardioprotective effect was completely dependent on the presence of theERβ receptor. The protective effect is similar to what is observed whenestradiol is administered.

While certain features of the invention have been illustrated anddescribed herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, andequivalents will now occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. It is,therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended tocover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spiritof the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating, delaying the onset of,reducing the incidence of, or reducing the severity of hypertension,comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeuticallyeffective amount of an estrogen receptor ligand compound represented bythe structure of Formula XI:

wherein R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,—C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, to CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR,COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅,Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substitutedor unsubstituted heterocyclic ring; R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen,haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl,phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen,alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH; R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR; R″ is hydrogen, Alkor COR; R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkylgroup of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group; Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR; h is 0, 1, 2 or3; i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4; n is 1, 2, 3 or 4; m is 1 or 2; p is 0, 1, 2,3, 4 or 5; and Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of1-7 carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons; or its isomer,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof.
 2. Themethod according to claim 1, wherein said estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor β agonist.
 3. The method according toclaim 1, wherein said hypertension is post-menopausal hypertension. 4.The method according to claim 1, wherein h is 1 or
 2. 5. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein m is
 1. 6. The method according to claim 1wherein i is
 1. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein saidcompound is:4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 8. The method according to claim 1 wherein said compound is:4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein said compound isadministered in a dosage of 0.01-50 mg/kg/day.
 10. The method accordingto claim 9, wherein said compound is administered in a dosage of about30 mg/kg/day.
 11. A method of preventing hypertension, comprisingadministering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effectiveamount of an estrogen receptor ligand compound represented by thestructure of Formula XI:

wherein R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,—C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR,COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅,Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substitutedor unsubstituted heterocyclic ring; R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen,haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl,phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen,alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH; R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR; R″ is hydrogen, Alkor COR; R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkylgroup of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group; Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR; h is 0, 1, 2 or3; i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4; n is 1, 2, 3 or 4; m is 1 or 2; p is 0, 1, 2,3, 4 or 5; and Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of1-7 carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons; or its isomer,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, N-oxide, ester, hydrate or any combination thereof.
 12. Themethod according to claim 11, wherein said estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor β agonist.
 13. The method according toclaim 11, wherein said hypertension is post-menopausal hypertension. 14.The method according to claim 11, wherein h is 1 or
 2. 15. The methodaccording to claim 11, wherein m is
 1. 16. The method according to claim11, wherein i is
 1. 17. The method according to claim 11, wherein saidcompound is:4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 18. The method according to claim 11, wherein said compound is:4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 19. The method according to claim 11, wherein said compound isadministered in a dosage of 0.01-50 mg/kg/day.
 20. The method accordingto claim 19, wherein said compound is administered in a dosage of about30 mg/kg/day.
 21. A method of treating, delaying the onset of, reducingthe incidence of, or reducing the severity of a condition associatedwith cardiovascular disease, comprising administering to a subject inneed thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an estrogen receptorligand compound represented by the structure of Formula XI:

wherein R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,—C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR,COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅,Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substitutedor unsubstituted heterocyclic ring; R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen,haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl,phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen,alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH; R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR; R″ is hydrogen, Alkor COR; R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkylgroup of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group; Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR; h is 0, 1, 2 or3; i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4; n is 1, 2, 3 or 4; m is 1 or 2; p is 0, 1, 2,3, 4 or 5; and Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of1-7 carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons; or its isomer,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof.
 22. Themethod according to claim 21, wherein said estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor β agonist.
 23. The method according toclaim 21 wherein said cardiovascular disease is post-menopausalcardiovascular disease.
 24. The method according to claim 21, whereinsaid condition is cardiac hypertrophy, ventricular hypertrophy or leftventricular hypertrophy.
 25. The method according to claim 21, whereinsaid condition is cardiomegaly.
 26. The method according to claim 21,wherein said condition is cardiac fibrosis.
 27. The method according toclaim 21, wherein said condition is cardiomyopathy or dilatedcardiomyopathy.
 28. The method according to claim 21, wherein saidcondition is myocardial infarction.
 29. The method according to claim21, wherein said condition is cardiac failure.
 30. The method accordingto claim 21, wherein h is 1 or
 2. 31. The method according to claim 21,wherein m is
 1. 32. The method according to claim 21 wherein i is
 1. 33.The method according to claim 21, wherein said compound is:4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 34. The method according to claim 21 wherein said compound is:4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 35. The method according to claim 21, wherein said compound isadministered in a dosage of 0.01-50 mg/kg/day.
 36. The method accordingto claim 35, wherein said compound is administered in a dosage of about30 mg/kg/day.
 37. A method of preventing a condition associated withcardiovascular disease, comprising administering to a subject in needthereof a therapeutically effective amount of an estrogen receptorligand compound represented by the structure of Formula XI:

wherein R₁, R₂, R₃ are each, independently, hydrogen, aldehyde, COOH,—C(═NH)—OH, CHNOH, CH═CHCO₂H, CH═CHCO₂R, —CH═CH₂, hydroxyalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, alkoxy, cyano, nitro, CF₃, NH₂, 4-Ph-OMe, 4-Ph-OH, SH, COR,COOR, OCOR, alkenyl, allyl, 2-methylallyl, alkynyl, propargyl, OSO₂CF₃,OSO₂CH₃, NHR, NHCOR, N(R)₂, sulfonamide, SO₂R, alkyl, cycloalkyl,haloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, benzyl, protected hydroxyl, OCH₂CH₂NR₄R₅,Z-Alk-Q, Z-Alk-NR₄R₅, Z-Alk-heterocycle or OCH₂CH₂-heterocycle in whichthe heterocycle is a 3-7 membered saturated or unsaturated, substitutedor unsubstituted heterocyclic ring; R is alkyl, cycloalkyl, hydrogen,haloalkyl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloalkyl, CH₂F, CHF₂, CF₃, CF₂CF₃, aryl,phenyl, benzyl, -Ph-CF₃, -Ph-CH₂F, -Ph-CHF₂, -Ph-CF₂CF₃, halogen,alkenyl, CN, NO₂ or OH; R′ is hydrogen, Alk or COR; R″ is hydrogen, Alkor COR; R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, an alkylgroup of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a 3 to 7 member cycloalkyl,heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl group; Z is O, NH, CH₂ or

Q is SO₃H, CO₂H, CO₂R, NO₂, tetrazole, SO₂NH₂ or SO₂NHR; h is 0, 1, 2 or3; i is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4; n is 1, 2, 3 or 4; m is 1 or 2; p is 0, 1, 2,3, 4 or 5; and Alk is a linear alkyl of 1-7 carbons, branched alkyl of1-7 carbons, or cycloalkyl of 3-8 carbons; or its isomer,pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, polymorph,crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combination thereof.
 38. Themethod according to claim 37, wherein said estrogen receptor ligandcompound is an estrogen receptor β agonist.
 39. The method according toclaim 37, wherein said cardiovascular disease is post-menopausalcardiovascular disease.
 40. The method according to claim 37, whereinsaid condition is cardiac hypertrophy, ventricular hypertrophy or leftventricular hypertrophy.
 41. The method according to claim 37, whereinsaid condition is cardiomegaly.
 42. The method according to claim 37,wherein said condition is cardiac fibrosis.
 43. The method according toclaim 37, wherein said condition is cardiomyopathy or dilatedcardiomyopathy.
 44. The method according to claim 37, wherein saidcondition is myocardial infarction.
 45. The method according to claim37, wherein said condition is cardiac failure.
 46. The method accordingto claim 37, wherein h is 1 or
 2. 47. The method according to claim 37,wherein m is
 1. 48. The method according to claim 37, wherein i is 1.49. The method according to claim 37, wherein said compound is:4-bromo-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 50. The method according to claim 37, wherein said compound is:4-cyano-6,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one or itsisomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product,polymorph, crystal, N-oxide, ester or hydrate, or any combinationthereof.
 51. The method according to claim 37, wherein said compound isadministered in a dosage of 0.01-50 mg/kg/day.
 52. The method accordingto claim 51, wherein said compound is administered in a dosage of about30 mg/kg/day.